Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has urged President William Ruto to uphold the rights of journalists.
In a statement shared on his X account on Monday, July 29, 2024, Omtatah highlighted that the Bill of Rights enshrines provisions that safeguard freedom of expression, media freedom, and the right to access information.
Omtatah reminded the President that these constitutional protections prevent any attempts to shut down the internet, noting that such actions would be unconstitutional.
“President Ruto should be reminded that Kenya’s Constitution serves as a pillar of protection for individuals involved in the media landscape. Embedded within the Bill of Rights are provisions safeguarding freedom of expression, media, and the right to access information. He cannot shut down the internet even if he wanted to, ama we thank him for not shutting it off?” Omtatah stated.
Omtatah’s sentiments come following President Ruto’s assertions about his powers during ongoing anti-government protests.
Ruto on media freedom
Speaking in Mombasa on Sunday, July 28, 2024, President Ruto tackled concerns about potential media censorship, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional principles despite possessing the authority to shut down media operations.
“I am a great believer in the Constitution, many countries that have gone through what Kenya has gone through, Bangladesh for example, they switched off the internet, they switched off the TVs, they did whatever they did,” Ruto said.
President Ruto highlighted his decision to uphold media freedom during the protests, resisting the urge to restrict information flow.
“I have the machinery to switch them off, I did not switch them off because I am a believer in the rule of law and I am a believer in free media,” Ruto declared.
President Ruto also noted the value of democracy and freedom of expression.
“Media outlets can criticize me, call me names, and hold demonstrations without any repercussions from my end. This freedom is the essence of democracy,” he concluded.
President Ruto reaffirmed his dedication to protecting constitutional rights and promoting open national dialogue.