The Power of the Kenyan Media

Dr . Omer A Mannan

The media indeed plays a vital role in shaping a nation’s democracy and destiny. Kenya is no exception.

As the fourth arm of power, the media’s impact transcends administrative, legislative, and judiciary powers. Its influence is amplified in today’s era of globalization and technological advancements, where anyone can address the world from their desktop.

The media, if well employed, will shape public opinion, mobilize people, highlight weakness and strength of the leadership as well as supervise, and safeguard public interest.

In many cases, the media single handedly was able to force leaders to abandon wrong ambitions and fight personal interests.

In Kenya, the media has been instrumental in holding leaders accountable and giving a voice to marginalized communities.

The power of the kenyan media was recently portrayed in their response to President William Ruto’s attempt to go against the African Union Charter. He intended to sponsor and host an opposition group of a sister African state.

The hosting and public support of Hemmedti, a man known for his ugly role in committing mas murder and multiple crimes in Sudan, is a dark spot in the history of Kenya.

The Kenyan media highlighted the event and explained the implications stressing the anti pan africanism and expected impact on the continent. They hosted several high-level politicians who loudly voiced their opposition to the move. Ruto was exposed as a bribed leader who intends to pursue his personal interests at the expense of the Kenyan people and legacy.

Thus, along with other stakeholders, the media succeeded in forcing Ruto to back down, at least for the time being.