Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on journalists to uphold responsibility, objectivity, and vigilance in safeguarding press freedom, as Kenya joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Freedom Day 2026.
In a message aligned with this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” Gachagua lauded the role of the media in informing, educating, and connecting society, while paying tribute to journalists who risk their lives in pursuit of truth.
“I join the world in celebrating all members of the Fourth Estate who sacrifice their time and risk their lives to tell stories that touch humanity, save lives, protect our environment, and uplift our spirits. We remain indebted to you,” he said.
Gachagua noted that while Kenya has made significant strides in advancing press freedom, the gains must be protected, especially at a time when citizens are increasingly demanding accountability and change. He urged journalists to remain attentive to public concerns and ensure their reporting reflects the voices and aspirations of Kenyans.
“Do not let your guard down, especially now when Kenyans are yearning for change. Listen to the people and tell their stories,” he said, adding that a peaceful national environment will be crucial as the country approaches the 2027 General Election scheduled for August 10.
He emphasized that press freedom goes beyond the absence of restriction, describing it as a responsibility that demands accuracy, fairness, and ethical conduct. “A free press is not only a pointer to democracy—it is democracy itself,” he added.
Globally, World Press Freedom Day—established by the United Nations in 1993—serves as a platform to highlight the importance of independent media in strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and defending human rights. The day also honours journalists who have lost their lives or faced persecution in the line of duty.
In Kenya, media stakeholders echoed similar sentiments, stressing the need to protect the integrity and independence of journalism amid evolving challenges such as misinformation, political polarization, and rapid technological change.
Kenya Correspondents Association National Chairman Hudson Araka Matara underscored the media’s role as a public watchdog and a platform for inclusive representation.
“The media must remain responsive and sensitive to all segments of society, ensuring that the voices of the weak, marginalized, and minorities are heard in the pursuit of good governance, accountability, and socio-economic rights,” he said.
The Kenya Editors Guild, on its part, called on stakeholders to safeguard constitutional protections for freedom of expression and access to information, while ensuring the safety and security of journalists across the country.
Media organizations also paid tribute to journalists globally and within the region who have faced threats, harassment, detention, and even death while carrying out their duties. Their sacrifices, stakeholders noted, highlight the high cost often paid in the pursuit of truth.
The Media Council of Kenya, in collaboration with the Association of Media Women in Kenya, Kenya Union of Journalists, and the Kenya Editors Guild, is set to convene a high-level forum on May 4 at Strathmore University to mark the occasion.
The event is expected to bring together journalists, academics, government representatives, and civil society actors to discuss emerging issues in the media landscape and chart a path toward strengthening press freedom in Kenya.
Organisers say the forum will provide a platform to reflect on the state of media freedom and explore ways of addressing challenges while reinforcing ethical standards and public trust in journalism.
As Kenya joins the global community in marking the day, stakeholders emphasized that press freedom is not solely a concern for journalists but a collective societal responsibility.
“When journalism is free, citizens are better informed and institutions are more accountable,” stakeholders noted, urging the public to support credible media and reject misinformation that undermines democratic discourse.
World Press Freedom Day 2026 celebrations are expected to reinforce the central message that a free, independent, and responsible press remains the cornerstone of a peaceful, informed, and democratic society.
