30 Apr 2026 The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called on stakeholders nationwide to work together in upholding press freedom and strengthening responsible journalism. Speaking at a multi-stakeholder engagement at the MCK Meru Regional Office, Regional Coordinator Jackson Karanja stressed the need for deliberate, sustained efforts by state and non-state actors to foster a free and independent media. “Press freedom is the bedrock of democracy. It demands collective responsibility from government agencies, media practitioners, and oversight bodies to ensure journalists can operate freely, safely and responsibly,” he said. Karanja was hosting representatives from the National Police Service, the County Commissioner's office, the IEBC, IPOA, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Meru County Assembly, the Meru County Government, civil society and local journalists. The forum enabled open dialogue on media-stakeholder relations, focusing on cooperation and removing barriers to effective information flow. North Imenti Sub-County Police Commander Ambrose Kyalo acknowledged the need for better police-media relations. “Though not always cordial, there is a clear opportunity to build mutual trust that serves the public interest,” he said. Meru Deputy County Commissioner James Baya noted that the evolving media landscape brings added responsibility. "The media must now contribute more meaningfully to nation building,” he said. Mugure Riungu, a journalist at Muuga FM, urged stakeholders to support reporters with timely information. "Tight deadlines make timely, accurate access essential for credible reporting,” she said. The meeting preceded this year's World Press Freedom Day 2026 commemorations, which MCK will lead under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace.” The forum reaffirmed that multi-stakeholder collaboration is key to press freedom, accountability and the media's vital role in peace and democratic governance.