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The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called on security agencies in Nakuru to work with journalists to create a conducive environment for elections coverage.

David Omwoyo (right), the CEO of MCK, underscored the need for co-operation and communication to avoid conflicts witnessed in the past.

He spoke in Nakuru yesterday during a consultative meeting between journalists and the Nakuru County security team. “Security agencies and the media have common roles in society and there is a need to ensure they work in harmony,” said Omwoyo.

County Commissioner Erastus Mbui pledged to work with journalists, saying his office has always been prompt in responding to queries.

He stated that information gaps on security mostly allows room for misreporting and misrepresentation of facts which leads to misinformation to the general public.

Omwoyo further urged security agencies to accord space for the media to allow them to undertake their rightful duties because they play a critical role in society.

“I am calling on the security agencies to come up with regular security briefings to educate and inform the public on their mandate, this is missing a lot,” he said.

On his part County Commissioner Erastus Mbui pledged to work hand in hand with journalists saying his office has always been prompt in responding to any queries once asked.

He said security agencies only withhold active cases under investigations to avoid contradictions and also not to give too much information that may aid suspects into fleeing.

“We have had a great working environment with the media and we will continue to work that way to improve the security environment in the county,” said Mbui.