Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati is in trouble with the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) after he threatened a journalist over a story the journalist was following.
The MCK condemned Wangamati’s actions that were directed at a journalist with the Royal Media Services.
The governor allegedly threatened Jimmy Simiyu over a story he was following about an event that was held in Bungoma last Saturday.
MCK CEO, David Omwoyo confirmed that the council was aware of the allegations that the governor called the journalist and threatened him after an editor from the same media house he is working, leaked back information about the story.
The Royal Media Services has been asked to investigate the incident and take disciplinary action against the said editor for obstructing the journalist's work and exposing his life to risk.
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MCK has asked the Inspector General of Police, Hillary Mutyambai to take the necessary action against the Governor.
The council also suggested that the journalist be accorded security by the police.
MCK cautioned leaders from various sectors from issuing threats to journalists who are only doing their jobs.
"The Media Council of Kenya calls upon the public and various public governance levels, including County Governments, to refrain from threatening and obstructing journalists from undertaking their lawful roles," said Omwoyo.
Wangamati was recently grilled by the Senate Public Accounts and Investment Committee over dubious expenditure in the county.
Bungoma Journalists demonstrate against Governor Wangamati who allegedly threatened a Royal Media Services reporter over a story.
— FERDINAND OMONDI (@FerdyOmondi) June 14, 2021
Media council of Kenya wants RMS to Investigate claims one of its editors is a newsroom politician informer. pic.twitter.com/OqJdzRkyjQ