The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) on Tuesday, 24 March, reminded media houses to enforce a seven-second delay when broadcasting live news.
The Council cited a growing trend of inflammatory and derogatory language by politicians during rallies, which are often aired live.
It warned that unfiltered live coverage could compromise journalistic standards in the country.
Kenya’s Media Council Requires Seven-Second Delay During Live Broadcasts. Photo: Courtesy.
MCK emphasized that Clause 11 of the Code of Conduct for Media Practice in Kenya requires media outlets to incorporate a minimum seven-second delay in live broadcasts to prevent the dissemination of content that violates the code.
The Council stressed that a responsible media environment should balance freedom of expression with accountability and ethical reporting.
The council clarified that while the media is not responsible for remarks made at political rallies or other public events, once such statements are broadcast through a media platform, they fall under media regulations.
MCK also went on to urge media houses to ensure that editorial content, news items, and commentaries are presented responsibly, avoiding material that could inflame passions or heighten tensions.
It stressed that offensive language, even when reported for public-interest purposes, should be handled carefully, with harmful content appropriately redacted.
The Council warned that media outlets broadcasting rallies live could bear legal responsibility for any litigation arising from the content, including hate speech or other harmful material.
Media houses were further reminded to remain vigilant and take pre-emptive measures to comply with the Code of Ethics.
