Media and Social Responsibility: an Investigation Into Post-election Violence Coverage by Kass and Musyi Fm Stations
Abstract
The 2008 post-election violence left the Kenyan media sullied. Unprofessional media coverage by Kass FM fuelled the post-election violence in Kenya. Musyi FM had more professional coverage of post-election violence compared to Kass FM. When covering conflict, media usually violates the principle of social responsibility and therefore aggravating the conflict situation; as people develop negative perceptions towards each other. To a greater extent, this was the case with the media coverage of2008 Kenya's post-election violence.
It is worth noting that there is talk among media experts on the strategic role media could play in conflict resolution. For instance, media may highlight widespread human rights violations, it can also serve as an early warning system or correct stereotypes in society leading to peace and harmony. However, Media critics have suggested that media coverage is in fact counterproductive in conflict management especially when it de-contextualizes violence or depicts the parties to a conflict as a duel.
Fair, balanced and decent coverage would result in conflict control and vice versa. The broadcast industry should, to this end, strive to provide ethical, balanced and professional frameworks to guide the media in program formulation and delivery. The Government should endeavour to provide on a regular basis guidelines to prevent mass media from violating professional code of ethics 'especially in the coverage of conflict.
Publisher
University of Nairobi, Kenya