The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has introduced a structured framework to guide journalists, editors, and media practitioners seeking to transition into elective politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The framework is designed to balance democratic participation with the need to uphold journalistic integrity and electoral fairness.

In a statement issued on Friday, May 29, 2026, the Council said it welcomes media professionals who wish to contest for political positions, noting that national leadership benefits from participation across different professional sectors. However, it emphasised that journalists hold a distinct responsibility because of their influence on public opinion through news coverage and editorial content.

The MCK further said the framework is aimed at preventing conflicts of interest while ensuring that media independence and public trust are protected during the electoral period.

“This distinct power necessitates a higher standard of scrutiny and specialised protocols to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure a level playing field for all political contestants.To support this transition, the MCK is designing a Special Governance Support Programme to equip media professionals with the leadership and policy tools needed to run effective, impactful political campaigns,” read the MCK statement in part.

Framework for media professionals entering politics

The MCK said it is developing a Special Governance Support Programme to equip journalists interested in politics with leadership, governance, and policy skills necessary for public office. The Council also directed all media practitioners intending to vie for elective positions to formally register their intentions through its official email, [email protected].

According to the Council, the registration process is intended to enhance transparency and ensure that ethical standards are maintained throughout the transition period. It added that structured support will help aspiring candidates manage the shift from newsroom roles to political engagement in a regulated manner.

The Council noted that national leadership thrives on multi-sectoral representation and said it remains committed to supporting democratic participation while safeguarding media credibility.

Guidelines on media conduct and electoral coverage

The MCK said it is finalising comprehensive Guidelines on Media Conduct and Reporting for the 2027 General Election. The guidelines outline mandatory requirements for journalists who declare political ambitions, including resignation timelines and immediate suspension from newsroom duties.

It stated that political aspirants must step down from active media practice within specified timelines and cease all on-air roles immediately upon declaring their intention to run for office. Media houses have also been directed to ensure fair and balanced coverage of all candidates to avoid giving former journalists undue advantage due to prior platforms.

The Council will hold a validation workshop with editorial leaders within the next 14 days to refine the guidelines before official launch and gazettement within 30 days.

Journalists eye elective seats ahead of 2027 polls

The announcement comes amid a growing number of media professionals expressing interest in elective positions. Several journalists have already declared or been linked to political contests across the country.

Among them, Trevor Ombija of Citizen TV has launched a bid for the Nyakach parliamentary seat in Kisumu County. Willis Raburu has declared interest in the Kisumu Senate seat after joining the Linda Mwananchi movement under ODM. Lulu Hassan has also been linked to the Mvita parliamentary seat, although she has dismissed some of the reports as rumours.

Others include Stephen Letoo, reported as a contender for Kilgoris MP, Tina Ogal who has joined ODM and is eyeing Embakasi East, Michael Njenga who intends to contest Kabete constituency, and Alex Mwakideu who has been mentioned in connection with the Kilifi gubernatorial race.

The MCK said the framework is intended to ensure fairness in the electoral process while maintaining clear separation between journalism and active political participation.