Justice Lenaola Urges Journalists to Uphold Responsible Reporting and National Cohesion

Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola has called on journalists in Kenya to exercise responsible reporting, uphold truth, and promote national cohesion, warning that media narratives will play a critical role in shaping the country’s peace ahead of future elections.

Speaking during the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2026 at Strathmore University in Nairobi, Justice Lenaola highlighted the growing influence of the media in a fast-changing information environment dominated by social media and emerging digital technologies.

He noted that journalists remain central to shaping public opinion, especially at a time when information spreads rapidly across multiple platforms.

“You are the heartbeat of the nation. Every headline, every breaking news alert shapes public perception,” Lenaola said, urging media practitioners to remain accurate, fair, and measured in their reporting.

The judge cautioned that the rise of digital platforms has intensified the spread of misinformation, with many citizens now relying heavily on social media for news consumption.

“Misinformation spreads just as fast as information, sometimes even faster. The responsibility lies with you to ensure accuracy without inflaming tensions,” he said.

Reflecting on Kenya’s past electoral cycles, Justice Lenaola stressed the importance of peace-sensitive journalism, especially as the country moves closer to another election period. He warned that careless reporting could easily heighten political tensions if not handled responsibly.

“The national moment must remain one of truth, not fear,” he added, urging journalists to prioritize facts while safeguarding unity and stability.

He further challenged the media to adapt to technological advancements, including the growing use of artificial intelligence in news production and distribution. While acknowledging the benefits of innovation, he warned against its misuse.

“We must embrace innovation cautiously, ensuring that technology serves truth rather than distorts it,” he said.

The judge’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about media responsibility, misinformation, and the ethical use of digital tools in journalism, as stakeholders seek to strengthen trust in the information ecosystem ahead of future national events.