Inspector-General of Police David Kimaiyo has denied ever threatening to prosecute journalists over the Westgate coverage. In a four-page statement in which the police chief lectures the media on what constitutes acceptable reportage, he says he only “cautioned and also urged members of the media to embrace objective reporting and even make positive criticism where necessary so as to help the NPS (National Police Service) offer even better services”. Kimaiyo says the caution has been blown out of proportion and taken out of context. Last week, the Standard Group CEO Sam Shollei and KTN investigative editors Mohamed Ali and John-Allan Namu received official summonses “to compel attendance” before the Kilimani CID boss George Ojuka. In the summonses, the police made it clear that they were “making an inquiry into alleged offence of unlawful sending of misleading messages” and that failure to heed them was an offence under Section 52 of the National Police Service Act. Monday, lawyers for the Standard Group obtained verbal assurances from DCIO Ojuka that the summons had been revoked. The Standard Group has, however, not received any written revocations on the same. Limitations to freedom In his statement, the police chief goes as far as quoting Articles 24, 27, 33 and 34 of the Constitution on the right of freedom of expression and its limitations, and concludes that the media must not choose to exercise their rights in line with the Constitution selectively. “Whereas people may advance arguments to the effect that they have a constitutional right to behave or act as they deem fit, it is important that they do not choose to exercise their rights in line with the Constitution selectively”. The police chief says their role is embedded in the Constitution and National Police Service Act, saying that neither he nor any officer who may want to carry investigations on any matter of national interest requires permission from anyone. Kimaiyo said in pursuit of information and desire “to be the leading news provider”, journalists must reflect on the story impact on affected. Displeasure and disappointment “As professionals, we have a duty and an obligation in our respective areas, to respect the Constitution. In this regard therefore, I wish to strongly express our displeasure and disappointment in the manner which some of our colleagues from the media fraternity go about their duty,” said Kimaiyo. The response comes amid heavy criticism and condemnation of the police chief by media, diplomatic, political and civil society leaders who say the freedom of the press must be safeguarded.
Posted on: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 04:37:34 +0000
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