Human Rights advocates in Trans Nzoia County on Monday highlighted the importance of an independent press which is increasingly facing threats from politicians and security organs.

Centre for Justice Coordinator Immaculate Shamalla said in a statement that the role journalists play in helping people make decisions can be a matter of life and death.

She praised the media for effectively standing as an antidote to the runaway corruption by giving out verified, scientific and factual news at all times.

She asked Journalists countrywide to do carry out their duties without fear or favour.

Speaking to People Daily separately in Kitale during an interview, Ms Shamalla called on the local and national governments to protect journalists.

“As we celebrate the World Press Freedom Day this year, we still have cases of attacks against journalists. I’m challenging the county governments and the National government to take necessary measures to guarantee the press protection, ” she said.

Ms Shamala said human rights defenders will continually stand with members of the fourth estate because it is through them that Kenyans can confidently express their views.

Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Fredrick Ochieng also praised media practitioners in the county for being an integral part in the fight against crime and being faithful in fighting corruption.

He described the relationship between the media practitioners and the police as cordial and pledged to give the media enough support as they discharge their duties.

He however called for fair reporting and warned against picking unverified information from members of the public.