The Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga, has promised to create a safe environment for journalists to operate. He said investigations into crimes committed against journalists will be expedited.
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00:00 The ODPP is committed to upholding the fundamental freedoms and rights of journalists in the
00:05 course of their duties, as the crimes committed against journalists erode and undermine democracy
00:11 and accountability in society.
00:15 I am honoured to stand before you today with a clear and unequivocal commitment to uphold
00:20 the rights and freedoms of journalists within the confines of the law.
00:25 To this end, I am committed to ensure that the following measures are undertaken.
00:30 One, investigations into crimes committed against journalists should be undertaken expeditiously
00:37 and those found culpable should be prosecuted.
00:42 Two, protection of witnesses and whistleblowers.
00:45 This is an integral part of the criminal justice system as it is meant to protect credible
00:50 sources of information.
00:53 Therefore, it is paramount that witnesses and whistleblowers are effectively protected
00:58 and not victimised sources to ensure quality prosecutions are undertaken, especially against
01:05 individuals of influence within society.
01:09 Further, I urge journalists to fully utilise the Whistleblowers Protection Act and the
01:14 Witness Protection Act.
01:17 The measures and strategies to address crimes against journalists.
01:23 In-timely prosecution.
01:24 I undertake to ensure that crimes against journalists are not only expeditiously prosecuted,
01:31 but I will also endeavour to hold those found culpable to account no matter their status
01:36 in society.
01:38 Collaboration and coordination.
01:40 My agenda, which is focused on a people-centred prosecution service, emphasises on collaboration
01:48 and coordination of external and internal stakeholders.
01:52 I will pursue strategies that foster close collaboration between my office and the Kenya
01:57 media stakeholders working to enhance information sharing and exchange of ideas.
02:04 This will end impunity for crimes against journalists and ensure a transparent and accountable
02:10 system.
02:12 Transparency and accountability.
02:15 Further, as a part of my agenda, I will revamp the ODPPAC, which will provide the platform
02:24 for dissemination of information regarding investigation and prosecution of crimes against
02:31 journalists.
02:33 It is therefore my firm belief that these measures and our collective commitment to
02:38 change can make a significant difference in the industry.
02:44 As we commemorate this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists,
02:50 let us recommit ourselves to the protection of those who dedicate their lives to upholding
02:56 the values of truth and transparency.
03:00 Let us stand together in the fight against impunity and promote a culture where journalists
03:07 can work without fear in the dissemination and misinformation of otherwise defiable aspects
03:17 of news.
03:18 I urge the media council of Kenya to deal with such biases which are only meant to undermine
03:24 the rule of law and accountability.
03:27 I also strongly urge the Kenya Editors Guild to embrace professionalism in order to curb
03:35 such biases.
03:37 Once again, I assure you of my unwavering support to ensure that crimes against journalists
03:43 are dealt with.
03:44 And I wish to thank you for this opportunity to address you on this auspicious day in commemoration
03:51 to end impunity for crimes against journalists.
03:56 Thank you.
03:57 [END]
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