The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called for a collaborative framework with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in the coverage of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, after meeting with the newly constituted IEBC, MCK observed that the collaboration would ensure proactive sharing of election information, strategic knowledge exchange, and skills development for both media and election officials to rebuild trust in Kenya’s electoral processes.

On his part, MCK board chairperson Maina Muiruri affirmed that the media would provide a balanced, responsible, and ethical coverage of the elections of 2027.

Professional coverage

“We aim to ensure media coverage of elections is not only professional and responsible but also fair, accurate, comprehensive, and informative, providing a balanced platform for citizens, candidates, and political parties to express diverse political views,” Muiruri said. 

Muiruri equally appealed to the media to monitor the fairness and credibility of the electoral process and contribute to peaceful national elections.

IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon underscored the need for a robust collaboration with the media, observing that members of the fourth estate play a vital role in democracy and governance.

Impartiality and balance

“A robust democracy requires a comprehensive, long-term strategy for media and election preparedness, rather than sporadic efforts. This will ensure a well-informed, professional, and independent media,” Ethekon noted.

MCK CEO David Omwoyo called on the media to exercise impartiality and responsibility in the coverage of the campaign and the subsequent elections of 2027.

“As Kenya’s sole media regulator, we prioritise public interest, impartiality, balance, cohesion, and unity. Our goal is to ensure media practitioners uphold these values during the electioneering period,” Omwoyo said.

The remarks come at a time when the country is headed into a campaign period of an election, which could be impactful in various respects.

President William Ruto seeks a second stab at the presidency without a significant base that supported him in the 2022 elections. He, however, latches on to his erstwhile political nemesis, Raila Odinga, who appears to harbour thoughts of endorsing Ruto for a second term, much to the chagrin of a section of his ODM Party leaders.