Journalists in the Coast region have been urged to uphold transparency and integrity in the leadership of their unions to strengthen accountability and ensure the organisations achieve their objectives.
Speaking during an Iftar dinner for Pwani Muslim journalists in Mombasa, Media Council of Kenya (MCK) CEO, David Omwoyo, said some journalists’ unions are grappling with integrity challenges and a lack of transparency in their leadership.
“Some leaders apply for funding to support union activities but end up pocketing the funds meant to benefit the union and its members,” he said.
He noted that transparent leadership helps prevent internal disputes and resistance from members, adding that accountability is key to building trust within professional organisations.
The MCK CEO also called on media houses to create inclusive work environments, urging them to accommodate Muslim women by providing space for daily prayers.
“We should not discriminate against Muslim ladies. Let us accommodate them and allow them to exercise their daily prayers within our media houses,” he said.
He also encouraged journalists to prioritise reporting on vulnerable families and marginalized communities, rather than focusing predominantly on prominent government officials.
The event brought together journalists from across the Coast region for an evening of reflection and engagement during the holy month of Ramadan.