The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has extended the usage of the temporary special media passes that were expected to expire on 30th September this year to 31st March 2022.
The passes were issued on 1st April, 2021 to non-journalistic staff critical to the operations of media houses and accredited journalists for identification by security officers during curfew hours during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a press statement sent to newsrooms, the Chief Executive Officer and Secretary to the Council, Mr. David Omwoyo said journalists will continue to use their press cards until they expire on 31st December, 2021.
He also advised journalists to start renewing their press cards as from 15th December, 2021 through the Media Council of Kenya accreditation portal, while urging those with queries on both the special media passes and press cards to channel them through the accreditation hotline number 0110131447.
“All accredited journalists, media practitioners’ and non-journalist staff issued with the special media passes should always carry their cards for identification,” Omwoyo said.
President Uhuru Kenyatta during the 15th Presidential Address on 26th March this year directed the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government and the Ministry of Health to review protocols for reissuance of curfew passes and exemption.
Following the directive, the Council issued the special cards after the Interior CS Dr. Fred Matiang’i allowed licensed broadcasters and media houses to operate during curfew hours as designated essential service providers.
By Grace Brightus
