The passing of the controversial Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Bill has continued to evoke anger and disappointment from different quarters in the country.
Eldoret Diocese Catholic Bishop Cornelius Korir has termed the Bill as draconian and aimed at abetting impunity. He says the government should not in any way interfere with the media.
“Bringing something like that is like saying that the MPs are perfect, which is wrong. Anybody holding an elected office should be ready to be appreciated and criticised in equal measure. We cannot live without criticism,” he said.
“Kenyans Citizens have a right to information which they should not be denied. It is in the constitution. In fact, it was a waste of time for MPs to talk about it instead of discussing more important issues like education. What are they trying to hide?” he said.
Earlier this week, Members of Parliament passed the bill which contains contentious clauses aimed at gagging the media.
Clause 27, requires journalists to seek parliamentary approval before publishing proceedings of Parliament or any of its committees, and Clause 34, introduces the offences of defamation and 'scandalous libel' on Parliament.