Press Freedom and Networking
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Date
1999-03-31
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Tangaza University College
Abstract
Mass Media is best defined as the various methods to communicate to
majority of people in a short period of time using television, newspapers,
magazines and the radio. The mass media in Kenya has changed during the
1990s wherein there was freedom of expression after the 1992 multi-party
general elections. The change enforced the vital role of the media in any evolving
democracy, that is, constructive engagement with and constructive criticism of
decision-makers and policy makers at every level. By informing the public of
actions that adhere to or deviate from the public interests, the independent media
enables the public to make informed choices and to participate more effectively in
national processes of political, economic, social and cultural development.
However, critical examination reveals that the change in the media is
fragile since it has not been supported by the evolution of a vision and a
comprehensive, enabling policy and regulatory framework that would promote
and protect the freedom of expression and information, and the evolving right to
communicate.'
An absolute affirmation of the State's appreciation of the media's role -
which is based on the state's legal obligation to uphold human rights and norms
in policies and regulations governing the media's establishment, management,
sustainability and content - is necessary for healthy and independent media. A
framework must also be an actualisation that will satisfy both the real information
and communication needs of the entire population, and as well as the
international investment interests of the media.
However, we hear of dailies and weekly papers being banned for
publishing articles that "endanger the welfare of the nation." Powerful individuals are continually harassing journalists as they exercise their profession. It is
through these tough realities that the writer deemed it important to write a
relevant research study in search for a possible solution to these pressing
problems of media centres and journalists as they try to promote the ideals of
democracy.
Description
Keywords
Democracy in Kenya, Current Situation of the Press, Networking Strategy, Democratic Media, Opportunity for Alternative