By Patricia Okumu

Amid discordant themes regarding the country’s readiness for electronic transmission of election results and regulation of political content, the ICT watchdog Communication Authority (CA) is bracing up its communication infrastructure to ensure that the upcoming elections are seamless.

At a media workshop held in Naivasha, the Authority was able to interact with the media and at the same time keep them abreast of the issues prevailing in the sector, and most importantly, to create an atmosphere of openness and trust between Communication Authority and the media.

“We shall be keenly monitoring the adherence of broadcasters to the Programming Code that sets the standards for broadcasting services, including coverage of political activities such as the forthcoming elections. We, therefore, urge the broadcasters to refresh their staff on the provisions of this important instrument, particularly at this time of heightened political temperatures,” the Authority said.

Technology has proven relevant notably when it comes to elections. For a smooth election, the Authority has urged all media personalities to ensure that all their mediums of communications embrace transparency.

As compared to 2017 where we had 78 percent coverage of the population in terms of 3G and 4G, which is the technology required to enable transmission. In 2022, Through interventions like the Universal Service Fund, CA has improved its coverage up to 96 percent. With this coverage, results are expected to be well transmitted hence helping encourage democracy.

For almost seven years now, Cybersecurity has been part of the mandate handed to CA and being part of the committee that has been tasked to ensure there will be a credible election, in Kenya, the authority has asked broadcasters to adhere to the Broadcasting Programming to assist counter messages that might bring conflicts and create a balance between the free flow of information, especially in this electioneering period

“CA is working closely with the NCIC regarding hate speech so we have had meetings with them they can intervene .with this close operation with NCIC and other multi agencies we believe we will be able to keep Kenyans in a safe space. The law also provides for irresponsible speech, the law will also take its cause for such irresponsible people,” said Tom Olwero, Director Spectrum, who attended the workshop virtually.

CA pointed out that it was paramount for the media to acknowledge that they carry an immense responsibility to ensure this country goes through the General Elections peacefully and comes out of the process more united and cohesive by exercising responsible journalism.

The media has been recommended to sensitize the public on their corresponding obligations of responsible use of the media, particularly social media in this season, where excitement over preferred political candidates may entice people with the temptation of spreading fake news and disinformation, as well as propagating hate speech.

“We look forward to seeing the media play its rightful role in the coming elections by providing fair and balanced reportage and utilizing their platforms to promote peace and harmony during this period,” added the Authority.

Media is powerful and it will be disastrous if gatekeepers across media lose their oversight role and allow external forces to use it to further their selfish agenda to the detriment of innocent audiences.