Media Council Issues Show-Cause Notice to Mediamax Over Alleged Breach of Media Code

 



 The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has issued a formal notice to Mediamax Network Limited, the parent company of Kameme FM, demanding an explanation over alleged violations of the Code of Conduct for Media Practice following controversial political remarks aired on the station.

In a letter dated June 16, 2026, addressed to Mediamax Chief Executive Officer Ken Ngaruiya, the Council said it had flagged content broadcast on Kameme FM between June 8 and June 15 during the station's popular Arahuka Show and Canjamuka Show, hosted by Muthoni wa Kirumba and Chief Gathemba.

The regulator said its monitoring team reviewed several broadcasts and social media publications linked to the presenters, which allegedly contained unverified political claims and accusations against various public figures.

Among the statements highlighted by the Council were remarks suggesting political interference in media operations and references to past political events involving senior leaders. The Council attached transcripts of the broadcasts and links to related publications as part of its case.

According to the notice, the remarks may have violated several provisions of the Media Council Act and the 2025 Code of Conduct for Media Practice, including requirements that journalists and media houses verify facts before publication, ensure opinions are based on verifiable facts, and present issues fairly and impartially.

The Council cited Clauses 4(a), 4(b), 4(g), and 4(h), which emphasize accuracy, fact-checking, and verification of allegations before publication. It also referenced Clauses 5(a) and 5(b), which require media practitioners to seek comments from affected parties and present all sides of a story in a balanced manner.

The notice follows growing public debate over political commentary aired on vernacular radio stations ahead of heightened political activity across the country. The Council noted that media freedom remains protected under the Constitution but stressed that broadcasters must exercise responsibility and adhere to professional standards.

Mediamax has been directed to show cause why regulatory action should not be taken against the station for the alleged breaches.

The development places one of Kenya's most influential vernacular radio stations under intense scrutiny and is likely to reignite debate on the balance between freedom of expression, political commentary, and journalistic responsibility in the country's media landscape.

With Kameme FM commanding a large audience in the Mt. Kenya region, the Council's move is expected to attract significant public and political attention in the coming days as stakeholders await the broadcaster's response.


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