The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has encouraged journalists, editors and media practitioners interested in politics to actively participate in the 2027 General Election, saying the country stands to benefit from leadership drawn from diverse professional backgrounds.
In a statement released on Friday, the council noted that journalists possess valuable experience in governance, public affairs, communication and accountability, making them well-positioned to contribute to national leadership.
MCK said Kenya’s democratic growth depends on inclusive leadership that reflects expertise from different sectors of society.
“The country benefits when professionals from various fields bring their knowledge and experience into leadership and governance,” the council stated.
The announcement comes as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 polls, with a number of media personalities already being linked to elective positions.
Council Plans Support Programme for Aspiring Leaders
To support journalists interested in elective office, MCK announced plans to introduce a Special Governance Support Programme aimed at equipping media practitioners with leadership, governance and policy skills.
According to the council, the programme will help aspiring leaders transition smoothly from journalism into public service while promoting responsible leadership.
Media practitioners intending to contest seats in 2027 have been encouraged to formally notify the council through official communication channels.
MCK said the initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen democratic participation and encourage professionalism in public leadership.
New Media Guidelines to Promote Fair Coverage
While supporting journalists seeking political office, the council also revealed plans to strengthen media ethics and election reporting standards ahead of the 2027 General Election.
MCK noted that journalists play a critical role in shaping public opinion and informing citizens, making fairness, credibility and objectivity essential during the election period.
The regulator said it is finalising comprehensive Guidelines on Media Conduct and Reporting that will help ensure balanced political coverage across all media platforms.
Among the proposals under consideration are clear timelines for journalists seeking political office to step away from active newsroom roles once they publicly declare their ambitions.
The guidelines are also expected to encourage media houses to provide equal and fair coverage to all political candidates.
Stakeholders to Review Proposed Reforms
The council announced that media editors and industry stakeholders will participate in a validation workshop within the next two weeks to review the proposed guidelines before they are formally adopted.
MCK expressed confidence that the reforms will strengthen public trust in the media while promoting ethical journalism and democratic participation.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to protecting media freedom, professionalism and integrity as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle.
