By Betty Luke
Isiolo journalists have warned local politicians against threatening any of their members for whichever reason saying they will not hesitate to seek legal redress.
The reporters put on notice county government officials and elected leaders who have been intimidating journalists for not covering stories in their favour saying they will continue to discharge their roles without fear or favour.
While marking the World Press Freedom Day in Isiolo town, they called upon leaders, government officials, elected leaders and the community to respect them and their work of informing and educating masses while also carrying out oversight on the leaders to ensure accountability and transparency.
Daniel Kalungé of Citizen Radio warned individuals masquerading as journalists with intent to cunningly access information from sources that law will soon catch up with them and asked the public to only deal with members who have been accredited by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).
Mr Kalungé urged officials and leaders to share information with the journalists whenever asked to adding that they were experiencing challenges getting information especially on funds utilization.
Daily Nation’s journalist Waweru Wairimu said they will continue discharging their roles professionally as provided for in the Constitution and warned leaders against threatening reporters.
“We will not allow any politician to intimidate any of us because they did not air a story the way they (politician) wanted. We will take action,” he said.
His sentiments were echoed by Mr Kalungé who said it was so unfortunate that, despite protection by Article 34 of the Kenyan Constitution, journalists continued to face intimidation and threats.
“No journalist should feel at risk because of a story they did since that is our responsibility (of informing the public),” said Mr Kalungé.
Ms Swaluha Yusuf, of Angaaf Radio Station stressed on the need for all stakeholders to appreciate the work done by journalists and asked residents to cooperate in providing information.
“As we approach the electioneering period, when cases of threats increase, we urge everyone to respect freedom of the press,” said Ms Yusuf.
