The Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) has decried the barring of journalists from Standard Media Group and Mediamax from covering a recent presidential event, calling the decision a major attack on media freedom and independent journalism.
In a press statement issued on May 7, 2026, KEG stated that the decision to bar journalists from attending a public event, along with disparaging statements about The Standard’s ownership, demonstrated a rising hostility against the media.
The Guild stated that the event occurred just days after Kenya commemorated World Press Freedom Day, showing a contrast between public claims supporting press freedom and growing intolerance of critical media.
Media Freedom and Accountability Under Threat
“The media is not an extension of the State. Neither is it a public relations department for those in power,” Kananu said.
KEG President Kananu defended the role of journalism in society, noting that the media exists to question, investigate, critique and hold leaders accountable on behalf of the public.
According to Zubeidah Kananu, it was concerning that some leaders appeared unwilling to respond to criticism through openness and accountability, instead resorting to exclusion, intimidation and public attacks against media institutions.
KEG President further criticised the use of inflammatory language and personal attacks against media ownership, warning that such conduct creates a hostile environment for journalists and media houses.
Concerns Over Constitutional Violations
Kananu argued that the exclusion of journalists based on editorial position or perceived criticism directly violates Article 34 of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees freedom and independence of the media.
She, Zubeidah Kananu also warned against the dangers of normalising hostility toward the press, saying democratic societies often begin sliding toward authoritarianism through gradual attacks on independent media voices.
“Kenya must not walk that path,” KEG President said.
The organisation condemned what it termed as inflammatory rhetoric directed at sections of the media and called on all public officials, including the President, to publicly demonstrate commitment to constitutionalism, accountability and press freedom.
Call for Respect for Independent Journalism
The President urged leaders to uphold tolerance and respect for independent journalism, especially when media coverage is critical or uncomfortable.
Kananu maintained that criticism should not be viewed as sabotage and that scrutiny is a necessary part of democratic governance.
“Leaders in public office must remember that criticism is not sabotage, scrutiny is not hostility, and journalism is not treason,” added Kananu.
