The Media Council of Kenya has completed an investigation into broadcasts aired on Kameme FM following concerns that some of the station's programs may have violated the Code of Conduct for Media Practice. The investigation focused on the station's popular Arabuka Show and Canjamuka Show, which attracted public attention after several politically sensitive discussions aired between June 8 and June 15, 2026. The review came after the Media Council received a formal complaint and carried out its own monitoring of the broadcasts. The findings have generated widespread discussion among journalists, media professionals, political leaders, and members of the public about the responsibilities of radio stations when covering political matters.
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| Photo collage//Muthoni wakirumba in studio/Blessed Media 001 |
According to the Media Council, the investigation centered on comments made during the broadcasts by presenter Muthoni wa Kirumba, also known as Baby Top. During one of the live programs, the presenter became involved in a personal on-air exchange with a political aspirant. The discussion later attracted significant attention on social media, where clips from the broadcast were widely shared. As the debate continued online, the presenter was also subjected to the unauthorized release of personal information, leading to increased tension across different social media platforms. The incident highlighted how quickly discussions that begin on traditional media can spread to digital platforms and create wider public controversy.
The Media Council examined the broadcasts using several legal and professional standards. These included the Constitution of Kenya, the Media Council Act, and the Code of Conduct for Media Practice, 2025. The purpose of the investigation was not only to determine whether the station had broken any rules but also to assess whether the broadcasts met the professional standards expected of licensed media organizations. The Council emphasized that journalists and broadcasters have an important responsibility to provide accurate information while maintaining fairness, respect, and professionalism, especially when discussing political issues.
One of the key findings of the investigation related to fact verification. The Media Council concluded that Kameme FM breached Clauses 4(a) and 4(b) of the Code of Conduct, which require journalists and media houses to verify information before presenting it as fact. According to the findings, the station aired serious allegations involving political interference and claims of illegal collection of personal data without first confirming the information through reliable evidence or supporting documentation. The Council noted that such allegations have the potential to influence public opinion and damage reputations if they are not properly verified before being broadcast.
The investigation stressed that fact-checking remains one of the most important responsibilities in journalism. Whether reporting on politics, business, or public affairs, media organizations are expected to ensure that claims are supported by credible evidence. Broadcasting unverified allegations may mislead audiences, create unnecessary fear, or contribute to the spread of misinformation. The Media Council therefore found that Kameme FM did not meet the required professional standards in this particular area.
Another important issue examined by the Council was the use of offensive language during a live broadcast. According to the investigation, the presenter directed a personal insult toward an individual during the program by saying, "You, dog, you are not God!" The Council ruled that this language breached Clauses 11 and 15 of the Code of Conduct, which require broadcasters to maintain professional standards and avoid offensive or abusive language during their programs.
The Council also questioned the station's handling of the live broadcast. Many broadcasters use a short transmission delay, commonly known as a seven-second delay, to prevent inappropriate or offensive material from reaching listeners. This system allows producers to remove offensive words before they are aired. However, according to the investigation, Kameme FM did not provide evidence that this safety measure was effectively used during the program. As a result, the offensive remarks were broadcast live to the audience without interruption.
Despite these findings, the Media Council did not conclude that the station had violated the Code regarding hate speech. The Council carefully reviewed the content to determine whether it promoted ethnic hatred, discrimination, or violence. After examining the available evidence, it concluded that although the comments were emotional, insulting, and politically charged, they did not meet the legal threshold required to classify them as hate speech under Clause 8 of the Code of Conduct. The remarks were therefore considered inappropriate but not unlawful in terms of hate speech provisions.
The investigation also examined claims that external political actors had influenced Kameme FM's editorial decisions. Editorial independence is an important principle in journalism because it protects media organizations from outside pressure and allows journalists to report freely without interference. After reviewing the available information, the Media Council found that there was not enough evidence to prove that political figures or any other external groups had taken control of the station's editorial decisions. As a result, the Council concluded that Clause 24 concerning editorial independence had not been breached.
Overall, the Media Council described the station's actions as a partial breach of the Code of Conduct rather than a complete failure to comply with professional standards. The Council explained that the violations mainly involved poor management of live broadcasts and inadequate verification of factual claims. It did not find sufficient evidence to support allegations of hate speech or loss of editorial independence. This distinction is important because different violations carry different legal and professional consequences.
The findings also place responsibility on the station's editorial leadership. Editors, producers, and station management play a critical role in ensuring that all content meets professional standards before it reaches the public. While presenters are responsible for what they say on air, editorial teams are expected to supervise broadcasts, enforce internal policies, and take immediate action whenever standards are not being followed. The Media Council emphasized that strong editorial oversight helps maintain public trust in the media.
As a result of the investigation, the Regulatory Affairs Directorate recommended issuing a formal Notice to Show Cause to Kameme FM. This notice gives the station an opportunity to respond to the findings, explain its actions, and present any evidence or corrective measures before further regulatory decisions are made. Such notices form part of the Council's regulatory process and are intended to ensure fairness while encouraging compliance with professional standards.
The investigation has also sparked wider conversations about responsible journalism in Kenya. Media experts argue that radio stations have enormous influence because they reach millions of listeners every day. Political discussions, especially during periods of heightened public interest, require careful moderation to ensure that facts are verified and discussions remain respectful. At the same time, journalists continue to play an important role in holding leaders accountable and providing platforms for public debate.
The Kameme FM case serves as a reminder that freedom of the press comes with professional responsibility. Broadcasters are expected to report accurately, verify information before publication, avoid offensive language, and maintain strong editorial controls during live programming. These principles help protect the credibility of the media while ensuring that the public receives reliable information. As the regulatory process continues, many observers will be watching closely to see how Kameme FM responds to the Media Council's findings and what lessons the wider media industry may learn from the case.