Journalists have been asked to familiarise themselves and be wary of the recently passed and security laws so as to avoid being victimised for being in breach of sections of the legislation.
The call was made by the Kenya Correspondents Association's (KCA) Program Officer, Esther Nthusi, who noted that the new law has serious and negative implications on press freedom and practicing journalists.
“Please familiarise yourselves with the new Security laws which have serious and negative implications for press freedom and you as a journalists,” said Nthusi.
Nthusi who addressed press at a briefing in Mlolongo town, Machakos County on Friday argued that the consequences of breaching the laws were too dire to be met by journalists.
She said the only fair and easy way of avoiding being culprits and victimized by the legislations is being keen and cautious whenever doing the stories.
She reminded the journalists that the two other laws, Media Act 2013 and the KICA Act 2013 are still in court with Kenya Correspondents Association as one of the litigants.
The officer said all journalists should make efforts of being in possession of copies of the documents, read and understand and practice responsible and ethical journalism.
Nthusi told journalists to also read and understand, live by requirements and provisions in the journalists' code of ethics for professional and peaceful practice.
She encouraged all practicing and non practicing journalists to join existing media movements and associations so as to benefit from various programs such as capacity building and sponsorship programs geared to empowering members of fourth estate.