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North Eastern Journalists Cancel Interview with Gachagua, Sparking Debate

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4 months ago Scott

A planned roundtable interview featuring former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and a group of Northern Kenya journalists was abruptly cancelled, generating diverse reactions across the country.

In a statement released on Thursday, 22 January, the Northern Kenya Media Practitioners announced their joint decision to withdraw from discussion, citing their commitment to responsible reporting and national unity.

“We regret to inform our audience that we have collectively decided to cancel the scheduled roundtable interview with Hon. Rigathi Gachagua,” the statement read.

According to the journalists, the decision followed internal consultations, with concerns that the interview could conflict with principles of ethical journalism, constructive public dialogue, and social cohesion.

The group noted that recent statements by Gachagua had been perceived as divisive, highlighting ethnic and regional differences in ways that could undermine national harmony.

They also warned that the discussion risked becoming a platform for personal attacks or the spread of unverified claims about individuals or institutions. Without clear assurances that the conversation would remain factual and respectful, they felt it was prudent to step back.

Media practitioners reaffirmed their commitment to ethical standards, promoting informed debate and supporting peace and unity in society.

Public Reactions

The cancellation quickly drew attention online, with many Kenyans criticizing the journalists for what they considered an apparent bias.

Lawyer Ahmed Nassir questioned the decision, arguing that it unfairly limited Gachagua’s opportunity to communicate his views.

“Disagreeing with what Rigathi G says shouldn’t mean denying him a platform. Accusing him of intolerance while practicing the same is unfair. Every Kenyan has the right to hear him,” Nassir said.

Some journalists also condemned the move. TV47 news anchor Abubakar Abdullahi described it as “unprecedented and unprofessional,” adding that the action undermined the core principles of journalism.

Denying Rigathi Gachagua the chance to address the North-Eastern audience is a disservice to the public and a mockery of journalistic standards,” he said.