Migori Journalists Mark World Press Freedom Day, Raise Concerns Over Media Intimidation and Poor Pay
George Juma, Chairperson of the Migori Journalists Association, speaking during the World Press Freedom Day event in Migori County. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Journalists in Migori County have raised concerns over shrinking press freedom by identifying intimidation together with limited access to information and poor working conditions as their most significant professional obstacles.
The concerns were voiced during World Press Freedom Day celebrations, where members of the Migori Journalists Association combined the commemoration with a charity visit to Good Samaritan Children’s Home in Suna East Sub-County.
The journalists led by Royal Media Services chairperson George Juma reported that media freedom exists only as a partial right under constitutional protections which the 2010 Constitution provides.
“Journalists are not yet free while carrying out their normal duties. Juma explained that some institutions deny auditors access to their facilities while journalists face obligations to produce particular story angles.
He said that journalists need to work together with partners and government officials to make important changes which will improve the business sector.
Emily Otieno Dala FM correspondent stated that media workers need better welfare because many of them experience salary delays together with unpaid wages.
Otieno urged journalists to sign formal employment contracts to safeguard their rights and enable follow-up through labour institutions when disputes arise.
The journalists emphasized that safeguarding press freedom and improving working conditions are critical to strengthening independent journalism and upholding democratic values.
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