Editorial Policy

We uphold the highest standards of integrity, guided by the Constitution of Kenya (2010), particularly Article 34 on media freedom; the Media Council Act, 2013 (as amended); and the Code of Conduct for Media Practice, 2025 (Legal Notice No. 88 of 2025), enforced by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).

This policy ensures independence, accountability, and public trust while addressing digital-era challenges like misinformation and privacy. It applies to all journalists, editors, contributors, and content. The policy is reviewed annually and effective December 2025.

1. Accuracy and Truthfulness

Accuracy is fundamental (2025 Code, Section 3). We verify facts from reliable, preferably primary sources before publication. News is distinguished from opinion, analysis, and commentary, with clear labeling.

• Headlines, images, and content must not mislead.
• Errors are corrected promptly and prominently, with an editor’s note and, where appropriate, an apology.
• Fabrication, plagiarism, and manipulation of visuals or audio are prohibited.
• Statistics and complex claims are cross-checked with authoritative sources.

2. Fairness, Balance, and Impartiality

We present diverse viewpoints fairly (2025 Code, Section 5). Controversial stories include responses from affected parties.

• No discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics (Constitution, Article 27).
• Right of reply is provided promptly and prominently.
• Sensationalism and clickbait are avoided.
• Coverage reflects Kenya’s diversity, including marginalized voices.

3. Independence and Integrity

Editorial decisions are free from external influence (2025 Code, Section 6).

• No interference from owners, advertisers, government, or special interests.
• Conflicts of interest must be disclosed; journalists recuse themselves where necessary.
• Sponsored content is clearly labeled; bribes or payments for coverage are forbidden.
• Copyright is respected, with proper attribution.

4. Privacy, Dignity, and Sensitivity

Privacy is respected unless public interest justifies intrusion (2025 Code, Section 7).

• Sensitive reporting on grief, tragedy, or victims (especially sexual violence) prioritizes compassion and anonymity where needed.
• Children and vulnerable persons receive heightened protection: minors are not identified in sensitive cases without justification, and consent is required.
• Compliance with the Data Protection Act, 2019, for personal information.
• Suicide and mental health stories follow responsible guidelines to avoid harm.

5. Sourcing and Ethical Methods

Sources are attributed where possible (2025 Code, Section 8).

• Anonymous sources are used sparingly, only with corroboration and editor approval.
• Confidential sources are protected.
• Intrusive methods (e.g., hidden recording) are permitted only in exceptional public-interest cases.
• User-generated content is verified before use.

6. Digital and Online Standards

The 2025 Code extends to digital platforms.

• Comments are moderated to remove hate speech, misinformation, and abuse.
• Viral claims are fact-checked; unverified content is labeled.
• AI-generated elements, if used, are disclosed.
• Content is accessible and inclusive.
• Inaccurate online material is corrected or removed promptly.

7. Accountability and Complaints

We are accountable to readers and the law (2025 Code, Section 10).

• Feedback and complaints are welcomed via info@newsroom.co.ke and addressed within 7 days.
• Serious issues may be referred to the MCK Complaints Commission.
• Internal ethics training and audits ensure compliance.