Attorney General Justin Muturi has denied reports that he has been misadvising President William Ruto on a number of legal issues.

Responding to media reports that President William Ruto does not consult him despite being the government’s chief legal advisor, the AG dismissed those claims and said they are inaccurate and taken out of context.

“This statement is entirely inaccurate and taken out of context. The misquotation is misleading to the Kenyan public and undermines the integrity of the Office of the Attorney General contrary to the tenets of the Constitution and the Media Council Act, Cap 411B (the Act),” Muturi’s statement, released on Thursday, July 11, 2024, read.

Freedom of expression

Citing constitutional acts that ensure freedom of expression, the former Siakago Member of Parliament urged journalists to uphold integrity as they discharge their mandate.

“Section 3, as read with Section 4 of the Media Council Act, requires that media enterprises and media practitioners, in exercise of their right to freedom of expression, shall—b) be accurate and fair; c) be accountable and transparent; d) respect the personal dignity and privacy of others; and e) demonstrate professionalism and respect for the rights of others.

“Further, Section 45(1) of the Act requires that – ‘The journalists and media enterprises shall keep and maintain professional and ethical standards and shalt, at all times, comply with the code of conduct set out in the Second Schedule,” the statement added.

Muturi added that in exercising his constitutional mandate and as the principal legal adviser to the government, he has emphasized that consultations with President Ruto are regular and ongoing on pertinent national matters.

He also defended his character and said he has always been a state officer who upholds the values of good governance.

“Throughout my career as a state officer, I’ve been guided and will continue to be guided by the national values and principles of governance as provided for under Article 10 of our Constitution.

“It is imperative that the media maintain accuracy and responsibility in their reporting to ensure that the truth is upheld,” he concluded.

Muturi’s assertion comes at a time when the government is facing a number of legal battles, including the house deductions levy that are an ongoing matter at the High Court.

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