The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has deployed representatives across all areas conducting by-elections, including Mbeere North, to monitor media coverage and ensure journalists operate within the required professional standards.

Speaking in Mbeere North on Thursday, November 27, 2025, MCK representative Jackson Karanja urged journalists to strictly adhere to the Media Code of Conduct throughout the electoral exercise. He emphasised that responsible reporting remains key in safeguarding the credibility of the by-election.

Karanja called on security agencies and election officials to grant journalists the space and time they need to perform their constitutional mandate of informing the public.
“We expect authorities to allow journalists to do their work without interference. Access to information is a right, not a favour,” he said.

He strongly condemned incidents of intimidation targeting journalists in some polling areas, warning those involved to stop immediately.

“No one should threaten or obstruct media practitioners. Journalists are here to gather information for the public, and that right must be respected,” he added.

Karanja also reminded reporters covering the Mbeere North by-election to prioritize accuracy, balance, and fairness in all their stories. He noted that the council is pleased with the professionalism displayed so far, saying most journalists have adhered to ethical standards despite the tense political climate.

“As a council, we are satisfied with how journalists have conducted themselves today. We encourage them to maintain the same standard until the end of the exercise,” he said.

The MCK’s monitoring mission is part of its broader effort to promote media freedom, strengthen ethical journalism, and ensure Kenyans receive credible information during election periods.