The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has accused sections of Kenya’s media of abandoning professional journalism in favour of political activism, urging media houses and journalists to recommit to accuracy, fairness and ethical reporting.
Addressing the press on Friday at the party’s headquarters, UDA Secretary General Sen. Hassan Omar Hassan reaffirmed the party’s commitment to constitutional media freedom, describing a free press as a cornerstone of democracy and public accountability. However, he said media freedom must be exercised responsibly, with strict adherence to professionalism, accuracy, fairness and journalistic ethics.
The party expressed concern over a growing trend of sensationalism, unverified reporting and opinion being presented as fact, warning that such practices risk eroding public trust, deepening political divisions and undermining informed public discourse.
UDA singled out several media organisations, including Standard Group, Royal Media Services’ Citizen TV and Mediamax’s Kameme FM, alleging that some of their editors, anchors and reporters had become politically compromised and had lost public confidence.
The statement also criticised journalists Chacha Mwita and Linus Kaikai, accusing them of advancing political interests rather than objective journalism. It further alleged that former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi and their allies were using sections of the media to pursue political agendas.
The party called on media houses to uphold editorial independence, factual accuracy, balance and accountability, while avoiding propaganda, unverified allegations and content that serves political or commercial interests instead of the public good.
UDA further claimed that declining professional standards had weakened public confidence in journalism and accused some media outlets of prioritising ratings, political narratives and personal interests over rigorous fact-checking.
The statement also criticised media coverage of national security matters, alleging that some outlets had undermined the work of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and other security agencies. According to the party, giving extensive coverage to individuals accused of breaking the law risks normalising criminal behaviour and weakening respect for the rule of law.
UDA urged Kenyans to practise media literacy by verifying information through multiple credible sources before sharing it and consulting official government communication channels for public information.
The party maintained that it remains committed to engaging the media professionally while advocating for a media environment that promotes truth, accountability, democracy and national development.
