The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has unveiled a framework to regulate the transition of journalists into elective politics as more media personalities position themselves for the 2027 General Election.
The Council said the framework seeks to strike a balance between the constitutional right of journalists to seek leadership positions and the need to safeguard media credibility, independence and fairness during the election period.
In a statement issued on Friday, MCK noted that journalists wield significant influence on public opinion through news reporting and editorial content, making their transition into politics a matter requiring stricter ethical oversight.
“Journalists hold a distinct responsibility because of their influence on public opinion through news coverage and editorial content,” the Council said.
MCK added that the framework is designed “to balance democratic participation with the need to uphold journalistic integrity and electoral fairness.”
The regulator warned that without clear safeguards, journalists seeking political office could trigger conflict of interest concerns and erode public trust in the media.
“This distinct power necessitates a higher standard of scrutiny and specialised protocols to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure a level playing field for all political contestants,” the Council stated.
As part of the transition plan, the Council said it is developing a Special Governance Support Programme to prepare journalists interested in politics with leadership, governance and policy skills.
“To support this transition, the MCK is designing a Special Governance Support Programme to equip media professionals with the leadership and policy tools needed to run effective, impactful political campaigns,” the statement added.
The Council has also directed journalists intending to vie for elective positions to formally register their political ambitions through its official communication channels.
According to MCK, the registration process is aimed at promoting accountability and transparency during the transition period.
“The registration process is intended to enhance transparency and ensure that ethical standards are maintained throughout the transition period,” it said.
The announcement comes at a time when several prominent journalists have either declared interest in elective seats or have been linked to various political contests ahead of the 2027 elections.
Citizen TV journalist Trevor Ombija has declared his bid for the Nyakach parliamentary seat, while Willis Raburu is seeking the Kisumu Senate seat through the Linda Mwananchi movement under ODM.
Stephen Letoo has also been linked to the Kilgoris parliamentary race, while Tina Ogal is eyeing the Embakasi East seat after joining ODM.
Others associated with possible political bids include Michael Njenga in Kabete and Alex Mwakideu, who has been mentioned in connection with the Kilifi gubernatorial race. Lulu Hassan has also been linked to the Mvita parliamentary seat, although she has dismissed claims of an active campaign.
MCK said it is finalising comprehensive guidelines on media conduct and election reporting ahead of the 2027 polls.
Under the proposed rules, journalists who declare political ambitions will be required to step away from active newsroom duties and immediately stop all on-air appearances.
“Political aspirants must step down from active media practice within specified timelines and cease all on-air roles immediately upon declaring their intention to run for office,” the Council stated.
Media houses will also be expected to ensure equitable political coverage during the campaign period.
“Media houses have also been directed to ensure fair and balanced coverage of all candidates to avoid giving former journalists undue advantage due to prior platforms,” MCK added.
The Council said it will hold a validation meeting with editors and media managers within the next two weeks before the guidelines are formally gazetted within 30 days.
MCK maintained that the framework is meant to protect public confidence in journalism while allowing media practitioners to participate in national leadership.
“The framework is intended to ensure fairness in the electoral process while maintaining clear separation between journalism and active political participation,” the Council said.
