MCK Responds Over Harassment of Journalists Issues Directive on Phone Usage
The Media Council of Kenya { MCK} has responded to frequent harassment of journalists while they are on duty. The body protecting the lives of media personalities while in the line of duty has revealed when journalists should use phones at certain events.
Christine Juma 
MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo argued that phones are professional equipment in the industry. However, he gave conditions in which portable devices can be used by media practitioners.
"The Council wishes to clarify that Mobile phones are now being used to not only take photos and videos but also record voice clips and undertake live broadcasting including live links.
"Professionally trained and accredited journalists and media practitioners should be allowed when needed," the statement read in part.
Omwoyo further added that journalists should comply with security personnel and present identification verifying their accreditation status.
NMG Journalist Assaulted by Police Officers. PHOTO NMG
He noted that by doing this, it would be easier to prevent security personnel from intimidating media journalists during events.
The CEO nonetheless emphasized that despite the greater freedom given to journalists, they must still abide by the code of conduct.
"Journalists and media practitioners are advised to adhere to the Code of Conduct specifically Clause 8 which prohibits the use of hidden cameras or phones unless there is no other way to access the news," Omwoyo wrote.
DP GACHAGUA'S WIFE BODYGUARD ASSAULT NMG JOURNALIST, HE RECORDS A STATEMENT TO POLICE STATION pic.twitter.com/M9sUlK5y0d
— Wagithomo Show (@MwanikiWachira) November 25, 2022
He further urged institutions that offer media-related courses to integrate mobile phone usage into their curricula.
This action comes barely a week after a Nation media Group Journalist Murang'a correspondent Mwangi Muiruri was physically assaulted by Security Details attached to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's wife, Dorcas Gachagua.
The journalist was assaulted during a relief food distribution event in Muranga County. In a viral video seen by this publication on Thursday, November 24, the security men can be seen man-handling the journalist as one slaps him.
Photo collage of Security Men Attached Dorcas Gachagua Slapping NMG Journalist in Kiambu County. PHOTO TWITTER
Additionally, from the video another colleague Martin Mwaura of NTV had his phone taken away by security after capturing the incident.
A voice that is thought to be Mwaura's shouts at the policemen, telling them that the victim was his coworker.
" He is my Colleague, He is a collegue...."
