Africa-Press – Kenya. Civil society groups have condemned Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria for attacking press freedom.
They came together in defence of media freedom and amplified the importance of an independent Press in holding power to account.
“The recent threats by the CS to send home any government agency advertising in one of the media houses in the country is not only unconstitutional and illegal but clearly communicates the State’s intention to interfere with the work of independent agencies in the country,” they said.
In a presser on Tuesday, the rights groups said they will stand firm and show support for the Media fraternity and commit to defending the fundamental principles of a free and independent press.
They said freedom of journalists is a cornerstone of a democratic society that ensures there is transparency.
The organisations said they are dedicated to upholding human rights and promoting social justice and denounced any form of government interference with the media.
“Such actions undermine the democratic fabric of our nation, erode public access to information and hinder the advancement of a truly inclusive and informed society,” they said.
The rights defenders urged the government to respect and uphold the principles of press freedom as enshrined in the Constitution.
“We are calling on the government to ensure the protection and promotion of press freedom as a fundamental right, essential for the functioning of a democratic society,” they said.
The organisations said they will continue to advocate for the rights of journalists and media organisations to operate without fear.
“Our collective commitment to defending press freedom remains steadfast, and we will continue to advocate for the rights of journalists and media organisations,” they said.
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