By KPC Reporter
The ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy on Thursday defended the newly proposed Code of Conduct for Media Practice 2025 before the Committee on Delegated Legislation.
Cabinet Secretary (CS) William Kabogo Gitau, and Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke appeared before the committee, chaired by Samuel Chepkong’a, MP for Ainabkoi.
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The committee had convened to scrutinize amendments published in Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 70 on May 14, 2025, which revises the Second Schedule of the Media Council Act.
The proposed Code seeks to reinforce media accountability amid Kenya’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, addressing concerns around child safety, misinformation, and the ethical use of emerging technologies.
The government delegation included Secretary Administration, Waweru Kimani and Media Council of Kenya (MCK) CEO David Omwoyo, signaling a unified front between policy makers and regulators.
A Turning Point
The reforms follow a landmark High Court ruling in November 2024 that declared the Broadcasting Code administered by the Communications Authority of Kenya unconstitutional.
The court cited regulatory overreach and lack of stakeholder participation, directing MCK to develop a more inclusive and constitutionally sound framework within six months.
The ruling reaffirmed MCK’s exclusive mandate to set media standards and monitor compliance, as enshrined in Article 34(5) of the Constitution.
Principal Secretary Isaboke said the new Code introduces safeguards against harmful digital content targeting minors, including cyberbullying and exploitation.
It also establishes ethical guidelines for media coverage of betting and gambling, addressing addiction and misleading advertising.
Further, it covers user-generated content and artificial intelligence (AI), ensuring responsible reporting in a fast-changing media ecosystem.
CS Kabogo emphasized that the Code was developed through broad consultations with media professionals, civil society, and the public.
“Kenya needs a free but accountable media space—one that evolves with global best practices,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy.
MCK CEO David Omwoyo praised the Code’s provisions for safeguarding children and regulating AI and gaming content, noting that it reflects Kenya’s resolve to balance media freedom with public protection.
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