KUJ SG Eric Oduor urges media houses to deny airtime to politicians promoting hate speech

Kenya Union of Journalists Secretary General Eric Oduor has called on radio and TV stations to refuse to give airtime to politicians who incite hate speech or engage in political violence. Speaking on a local radio station on August 19, 2026, Oduor stressed that media must take a strong stance against speech that could lead to violence, as allowing such figures to appear on air may help them cover up their actions.

He mentioned Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, without naming them for wrongdoing. Oduor warned that media outlets risk contributing to the problem by giving a platform to those associated with violence. He argued that when the media allows such individuals to appear without proper scrutiny, they become part of the issue and facilitate their attempts to justify their actions.

The call follows a Linda Mwananchi tour of Homa Bay County on August 16, 2026, which saw political tensions disrupt opposition rallies and cause clashes along the route. Journalists covering the events faced challenges, including having their equipment damaged by Mediamax Network. Oduor emphasized that journalists should be provided with safe passage when covering politically sensitive events.

He pointed out that there appears to be a deliberate strategy to prevent media personnel from attending or to destroy their equipment, and that safe corridors should be established for journalists operating in areas where they may face confrontations. Oduor also urged journalists to be more vocal about the threats they face in their profession, noting that they often remain silent on their own challenges while criticizing others.

As political activity ramps up ahead of the 2027 General Election, Oduor's remarks highlight the media's crucial role in balancing editorial independence, the public interest, and the risk of amplifying rhetoric that could fuel political tension or violence.