On August 6, 2024,The StandardandPeople Dailynewspapers published news articles detailing a three-hour interview with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, conducted by vernacular stations from Mt Kenya region at his official residence in Karen, Nairobi.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
The articles titled, “If I’m impeached, I will leave with my head held high, says Gachagua” (The Standard)and, “Gachagua: My phone calls are tapped, allies threatened” (People Daily)highlighted the Deputy President’s alleged frustrations in his role as the second-in-command.
He revealed that several MPs were warned against collaborating with him, his phone conversations with friends and allies were tapped, and his business associates threatened.
However, several aspects of these stories could benefit from critical evaluation. The narrative heavily focused on Gachagua’s perspective without input from other key figures in the administration, such as President Ruto or the officials accused of undermining the DP.
The tone of the stories tended to align with his narrative, leading to bias. Notably, they ignored the right of reply as stated in the Code of Conduct, which says that anyone mentioned in unfavourable context should be given chance to comment.
Other viewpoints or interjections could help provide a more balanced and comprehensive picture of the situation and the dynamics at play.
Further, many of the Deputy President’s allegations, such as surveillance and threats, are serious but lacked corroboration.
“All phone calls to me are tapped. I don’t know for what reason. Anyone who talks to me or even visits me is closely monitored,” he asserted.
Investigative follow-up on these claims would strengthen the story’s credibility. The writers ought to have sought comments from security agencies or presented documented instances to corroborate these allegations.
While the stories highlight internal strife, they could explore the broader implications for governance and policymaking. How does this discord affect the administration’s ability to govern effectively? What are the potential consequences for the public and the country’s stability?
A key pointer that missed in the story. It is essential for writers to explore how these internal conflicts would affect the administration’s functionality and the potential consequences to the public.
Gachagua’s claims of reaching out for reconciliation with former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Mt Kenya region were touched upon but not deeply explored. What steps has he taken? What about those other parties mentioned? Further exploration of these efforts by the journalists was needed.
A more balanced and in-depth approach would have provided readers with a comprehensive understanding of the situation, not just documenting the interview; moving beyond a single perspective to explore the wider implications and underlying dynamics. This would have not only enhanced the credibility of the reporting but also contributed to informed public discourse…CONTINUE READING>>
