MCK Criticizes County Governments for Withholding Crucial Public Information, Urges Greater Transparency
“Failing to provide information to the public in a timely manner erodes the trust that citizens have in their governments,” said Omwoyo
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has raised serious concerns over the actions of county governments that continue to withhold crucial information from the public, calling for greater transparency and accountability in governance.
Speaking during a press briefing, MCK’s Chief Executive Officer, David Omwoyo, emphasized the critical role of timely information in maintaining public trust and ensuring effective governance. He pointed out that withholding essential information undermines public confidence in the authorities and creates an environment where misinformation and unnecessary conflicts can thrive.
“Failing to provide information to the public in a timely manner erodes the trust that citizens have in their governments,” said Omwoyo. “This lack of transparency not only contributes to public frustration but also leads to the spread of rumors and false information, which can be detrimental to societal cohesion.”
Omwoyo further stressed the importance of adhering to Chapter 35 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees the public’s right to access information. He noted that compliance with these provisions fosters accountability and supports the pillars of devolution and democracy.
“Transparency and the provision of answers to questions raised by the public, as outlined in the Constitution, are vital. When citizens are informed, they can actively participate in governance and decision-making processes, which ultimately drives development and strengthens our democracy,” he added.
The Media Council urged all levels of government to prioritize openness in communication and to ensure that the flow of information between government and the public remains uninterrupted for the benefit of all citizens.
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