National Assembly Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the Centre for Parliamentary Studies (CPST) to develop concise courses aimed at helping journalists covering parliamentary proceedings gain a comprehensive understanding of its traditions, activities, and events.
Hon Wetang’ula as he called for specialised training for journalists covering Parliament said CPST needs to develop tailored refresher courses for the scribes to enable them understand Parliament better for accurate reporting.
“Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) will budget for the training programmes to make it affordable for the media Houses or journalists seeking knowledge from the institution,” he added.
He noted that Parliament will collaborate with the Media Houses to train their parliamentary reporters to ensure visibility of the House, accurate and timely desemination of information to the public.
“As Parliament we want to get better out of the Media the way they expect to get better out of us. This can only work if we have more informed journalists covering Parliament proceedings,” said the Speaker.
Hon Wetang’ula made the remarks when he officially opened the National Assembly Leadership and Editor’s Retreat in Mombasa today.
The retreat whose theme is Bridging the Dissemination Gap:News Editors and Parliament, is aimed at fostering responsible journalism and strengthening the relationship between the Media and Parliament.
MPs Hon. Mohammed Adow (Wajir South) and Hon. John Kiarie (Dagoreti South), National Assembly Clerk Mr. Samuel Njoroge, Director General Mr Clement Nyandiere, Editors from various Media Houses and Kenya Parliamentary Journalists Association chairman Duncan Kheamba were among key people who attended the retreat.
The Speaker noted that Media were key partners in dissemination of information about parliamentary proceedings and operations and assured them that their rights will be protected.
“Parliament under my watch will always protect Media rights and freedom but I urge journalists to practice responsible journalism for the good of both of us,” he added.
Hon. Wetang’ula stressed the importance of upholding the law and the role of the media in shaping the nation’s discourse.
While quoting reknown writer Winston Churchill’s saying, “Politicians love two things – seeing their name in the media and their faces on television”, the Speaker asked journalists to be fair and responsible while covering parliamentary proceedings.
Highlighting the evolving landscape of media technology, Hon. Wetang’ula acknowledged the challenges posed by the digital divide, emphasizing that many people still lack access to smartphones and consequently miss out on important parliamentary proceedings.
“The fidelity of residents to a media house that caters to their preferences remains strong,” said Hon. Wetang’ula as he challenged Media outlets to find innovative ways to reach those who are digitally disadvantaged.
Speaking on the global perception of the media, Hon. Wetang’ula acknowledged the love-hate relationship that the industry often faces, underlining its critical role in holding those in power accountable.
He expressed concern over the harassment and violence faced by media practitioners worldwide noting that journalists should not be cowed by such incidents.
Reflecting on the historical development of media technology, from telegrams to television, Hon. Wetang’ula stressed the need for specialized training for journalists covering parliamentary matters effectively.
Hon. Wetang’ula also urged veteran journalists to mentor and guide the younger generation, emphasizing the importance of encouragement in their career development.
“As Parliament, we view the media as our partners,” Hon. Wetang’ula stated, revealing plans to establish a media center within the Parliament building to facilitate collaboration and effective communication.
He noted the progress made in ensuring better working conditions for employees at Parliament and encouraged editors to consider writing books about parliamentary proceedings to provide insights into the legislative process.
Hon. Wetang’ula asked journalists to focus on diverse stories that showcase the positive aspects of Kenyan society, beyond political rivalries.
He proposed a shift in media coverage to dedicate more headlines to human interest stories and less to politics.
In conclusion, Hon. Wetang’ula expressed his respect for the media as a valuable friend and encouraged journalists to continue their vital role in shaping the nation’s narrative.
He affirmed Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of journalists as they report on the workings of the House.
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