Young MPs pledge to defend media rights and freedom of expression
They praised Kenyans for consistently speaking out when things go wrong and pledged to advocate for bills that would empower citizens to hold their government and leaders accountable.
Members of the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association have pledged to actively advocate for media freedom and the right to free expression, emphasizing that these rights are firmly protected by the constitution.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Association, stated that they are committed to safeguarding freedom of expression.
He noted that several pieces of legislation aimed at this goal—such as the Public Participation Bill and the Whistleblower Bill—are currently at different stages of consideration in the National Assembly.
Speaking during a roundtable meeting with various stakeholders in Nairobi, Mukunji highlighted that although these freedoms are constitutionally protected, individuals who choose to exercise them often encounter legal threats, arrests, and even violence, sometimes carried out through strategic lawsuits intended to suppress public involvement.
"We have seen cases that are filed to intimidate and silence those who publicize news and media stories on matters of public interest, such as those that expose the government's malfeasance, corruption, and social injustices," said Mukunji
The young legislators expressed concern that the ongoing trend is hindering Kenya’s democratic progress and violating the country's commitments under both national and international human rights frameworks.
They pointed out that demand letters and threats are being issued online.
They praised Kenyans for consistently speaking out when things go wrong and pledged to advocate for bills that would empower citizens to hold their government and leaders accountable.
Marakwet East MP Timothy Toroitich emphasized that media freedom must be preserved, noting that Parliament has nearly lost its oversight role due to being suppressed by the Executive.
He pointed out that the media and non-governmental organizations have stepped in to fulfill this responsibility.
"It is evident that Parliament has been silenced by the Executive, leaving the media and NGOs as the only institutions still advocating for citizens' rights. We must ensure they are not silenced," Toroitich stated.
However, the young legislators urged Kenyans to exercise responsibility while enjoying the freedoms guaranteed in the constitution.
They noted that a few individuals have misused this freedom by spreading abusive messages and propaganda aimed at tarnishing others' reputations.
They also condemned the harassment and intimidation faced by their colleagues who express views that are unfavorable to the Executive.
