Resolution of media disputes in Kenya has received a fresh lift following the assumption of office by newly-appointed members of the Complaints Commission, in line with the Media Council Act, 2013.
The Commission has been constituted to ensure adherence to high standards of journalism as provided for in the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya in the Second Schedule of the Media Council Act, 2013.
Members of the Commission are: Demus Kiprono (Chairperson), Kantim Mwanik, Maseme Machuka, Polly Gathoni Waweru and Nassra Hussein Omar.
The new members were sworn into office this morning by Judge of the High Court Honourable Lady Justice Caroline Kendagor at the Supreme Court building in Nairobi.
MCK CEO David Omwoyo said: “We hope that with the appointment of the Complaints Commissioners, complaints regarding the media’s ethical conduct shall be referred to the Complaints Commission with a view of entrenching professionalism and press freedom in Kenya.
The MCK CEO explained that the constitution of the Commission is still ongoing given that two more members of the Commission are yet to be gazetted.
“The Council is aware that there are some commissioners who have not yet been appointed and we will engage the Judiciary once again to expediate their swearing-in upon resolution of any pending issues and to enable the Commission to be fully Constituted”, said Mr Omwoyo.
Incoming Chairperson of the Complaints Commission Mr Kiprono said: “The Complaints Commission is called upon to enforce the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya, freedom and independence of media in democracy and keeping the people informed. We will work to ensure that compliance of the Code of Conduct is enforced”.