MCK Unveils Election Reporting Rules Ahead of 2027 General Election

By Issa Hussein - Reporter

Kenya, May 29, 2026 - The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has announced plans to roll out new election reporting guidelines aimed at promoting ethical journalism and safeguarding media credibility ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during the Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) breakfast meeting in Nairobi on Friday, MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo said the council was strengthening partnerships to support responsible journalism, media sustainability and public trust in the press.

“These conversations are geared towards promoting democracy, especially as we approach the election period,” said Mr Omwoyo.

He said the guidelines, expected to be ready before the end of June, will address key issues including objectivity, independence and conflicts of interest, particularly for journalists intending to vie for elective seats.

“We must have critical conversations around independence and objectivity, particularly where journalists declare an interest in elective positions,” he said.

Mr Omwoyo noted that the council would also facilitate discussions on how journalists transitioning into politics can do so responsibly without undermining public confidence in the media.

He said supporting journalists and media institutions was critical in strengthening democracy and ensuring Kenyans access credible and accurate information.

“Supporting journalists is supporting Kenyans,” he added.

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The MCK boss also underscored the growing influence of strategic communication in governance and public affairs, saying communication professionals were increasingly occupying central leadership positions.

“Public communication is the new currency,” he said.

Kenya Editors Guild President Zubeida Kananu called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard editorial independence and ethical journalism ahead of the next elections.

“The partnership is not just about sponsorships or conventions. It is about protecting democracy, preserving institutions and strengthening public trust,” said Ms Kananu.

She urged partners and institutions to support initiatives focused on journalist safety, fact-checking, mental health, climate reporting, media innovation and election preparedness.

Ms Kananu said the media plays a central role in promoting informed public debate and defending democratic values during election periods.

The meeting brought together media practitioners, civil society groups, development partners and private sector representatives to discuss media sustainability and the role of journalism in strengthening democratic governance.