The Media Council of Kenya has cautioned politicians against seeking refuge in media houses to evade arrest, warning that the trend risks undermining press independence and public trust in journalism.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Council said recent events—where a political leader stayed inside a media station to avoid law enforcement—had blurred the line between journalism and political activity.
The remarks follow the incident involving John Kaguchia, who spent the night at Royal Media Services premises after appearing on a live broadcast.
The Council stressed that media institutions are designed to facilitate public discourse, not to shield individuals from legal accountability.
It warned that turning newsrooms into “asylum centres” exposes journalists to reputational risk and could wrongly suggest complicity in political disputes.
“Media houses must remain safe, neutral spaces dedicated solely to journalism,” the Council said, adding that public figures should leave immediately after their media engagements.
Kaguchia had remained at the station citing fears of arrest by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations over remarks he allegedly made during a political rally.
Authorities later arrested him outside the premises and initiated legal proceedings linked to claims of incitement.
While reaffirming its support for freedom of expression, the Council emphasized that such rights must be exercised within the law. It urged politicians to address any legal matters through established channels rather than involving media institutions.
The regulator also raised operational concerns, noting that such incidents could disrupt newsroom functions and compromise editorial independence, especially as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.