World Press Freedom Day The Power of Media and the Responsibility of the Press We have seen the

power of media. Weve seen how it can allow conversation and innovation, how it can mould and shape public thought, How it can inform a nation and empower a people to make enlightened decisions and how it can to provide for the progress and perfecting of the democratic processes within a nation. Within our own nation- weve seen how the availability of various forms of mass media allow for accountability. How just the fact of a free and independent media can change the way leaders operate. Right now, were seeing how media allows the nation to follow and, in some ways, be a part of the vetting process. Around the world weve seen the capacity that shared information has to unite disparate people under a common goal. Whether its through a report that breaks down the barriers between us and reminds us of our shared humanity or through the persons sharing of a story that liberates others to do the same and changes the direction of a village or a city or a nation- we know that information has the power to rally communities behind a cause. We know information shared can spark collective anger, or joint rejoicing or allow for unanimous action. Which is part of the reason why social media has become such an important part of our lives. Because we want to hear whats going onand we want to be heard, and we want the information we gain- to make a difference. So we all know that a free; independent and responsible media plays a crucial role within any society and for the most part, we genuinely believe that journalists and bloggers and those who comment on the social or political or economic environment should be given the space they need to function without fear or favor. Kenyans believe that. We acknowledge as much in our constitution. We acknowledge that repression, censorship and partisanship have no part in a democratic regime. We also acknowledge that freedom is no excuse for irresponsibility or inhumanity. Because Media, whether its electronic media, print media or social media is powerful and can be as detrimental as it is useful. So no matter who you are- today is important. As a nation, theres a lot we have to celebrate in the journey that weve taken towards establishing a free and independent media. The repealing of the official secrets act has had a considerable impact- making it possible for the public to scrutinize key departments. The constitution now draws a clear line with regard to freedom of the media as well as freedom of expression- two freedoms that were severely restricted in the last constitution. And the

constitution also has expressly stated that all citizens within this country have the right to access information held by the state. The existence of multiple independent media houses has also served us well and enabled us to continue on the journey towards a responsible media- as well as a free one. These strides shouldnt be disregarded or belittled. They are great accomplishments to be prized as part of a successful history. But they are not, in themselves, a complete work. There is still much to be done to ensure that within Kenya we have a credible, transparent, non-partisan, responsible and yes- free, media. So today I call upon the government to co-operate with this constitutional freedom. To enact the legislation that must be present for citizens to get access to information held by the government and by governmental organizations. all media houses to see it as their duty to enhance political accountability, increase transparency (with regard to governmental functions) and challenge misconceptions and incorrect stereotypes or paradigms within our nation. I call upon journalists everywhere to ensure that they live up to the high levels of decency and veracity that must be rampant within their profession. To engage in the kind of journalism that makes our country proud. To take upon themselves that noble journalistic tendency of being undeterred in your (often) sacrificial pursuit of the truth. I commend you who have already taken up that mantle, and who continue to fulfill the duty you have to report without fear or favour. And finally, I call upon all patriotic citizens to do everything within their own power to receive the right information. To strive to set the standard within our nation with regard to responsibly handling freedom. To uphold decorum, equity, tolerance and respect, and to exercise caution and thoughtfulness even as you pass on information through various platforms. It is my hope that we will continue to share the information that needs to be shared, and renounce the information that undermines our national unity or deters our national progress. We have come a long way within our country. We have come a long way in tolerating opinions, and allowing freedom of expression and respecting freedom of the press. Theres no doubt that we are steadily moving in the right direction. Lets keep striving to get there. Yours Sincerely, Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta.