America's top publishers, The New York Times, has an ultimatum of 24 hours to pull down scary images taken at Dusit Hotel Complex on Tuesday afternoon, the Media Council of Kenya has demanded.

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In an article written by East Africa correspondent Kimiko Tamura, the paper which enjoys wide readership across the world, published images of the dead, causing heated debate on social responsibility.

And on Thursday, MCK Chief Executive David Omwoyo, officially wrote to the Chief Bureau of the publication, demanding for pulling down of the photos and subsequent apology.

"MCK demands that your publication pulls down the insensitive pictures within 24 hours and makes an unconditional apology on the matter. We believe this will be a step in regaining confidence in regard to the professionalism of your articles,” David Omwoyo, MCK’s Chief Executive Officer said in the letter.

He said though MCK reaffirms its commitment to press freedom, access to information and rule of law, all journalists working in Kenya must respect the rules on responsible journalism.

“Take note, in the event the pictures are not pulled down, within 24 hours as requested, MCK will initiate relevant action against your publication, not limited to revocation or suspension of accreditation of journalists working for New York Times in Kenya. You are hereby required to inform the council of your action within 48 hours and not later than January 21, 2019,” he added.

In a response to outbursts by Kenyans on social media, the New York Times insisted that the publication of the photos had nothing to do with irresponsible journalism. The statement provoked many Kenyans who demanded for deportation of the journalist.

"We have seen and heard your feedback. However, it's our responsibility to give the true picture to readers on such terror incidents. This can be done without sensationalisation of the facts," read the statement.

According to the Inspector General Joseph Boinet, a total of 21 people lost their lives. Of the dead people, 16 were Kenyans, one American, one Briton and three others had no identity.