An assessment of partiality, bias and accuracy in Kenya's mainstream print media in the 2002 and 2007 General elections

Abstract

This study was informed by mounting concern about the dysfunctional processes of content generation, gathering and presentation which has fueled the growing perception of media bias in the coverage of elections in Kenya. The research documents media bias in political coverage-specifically the 2002 and 2007 General Elections-after a painstaking review of published material.

It measures the degree of skew by the press and comes out with far reaching recommendations to inculcate best practices among journalists and media managers. Key among them is the development of a systematic roadmap in the selection of. editorial content that caters for all parties. It concludes that stakeholder participation is key in making the media more accountable as they play their surveillance role. It fmds that with standardised training and rigorous application of ethical principles, true balance can be obtained through the active promotion of diversity of opinion that reflects a dynamic and multi-faceted society.

The study helps to define how the media can reclaim their agenda-setting role as watchdogs of society, even as they contribute to sustain and promote social and national development.