The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has warned individuals seeking press cards through deceptive means to stop.
MCK Chief Executive Officer and Secretary to the Council, David Omwoyo, said the Council has detected that individuals are submitting suspect academic certificates and recommendation letters during the accreditation process.
“Several cases of fraudulent documentation have been identified, reported to the relevant authorities, and are currently under investigation,” said Omwoyo.
In a press statement sent to newsrooms, the CEO warned accreditation applicants that the submission of fake academic certificates and recommendation letters is a violation of Section 48 1 (C) of the Media Council Act 2013, and those found culpable of the offence will be convicted.
This section stipulates that any person who knowingly provides false or misleading information to the Council is guilty of an offense and, upon conviction, is liable to a fine not exceeding Kenya Shillings Two Hundred Thousand, imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both.
He assured that MCK conducts thorough verification of all submitted accreditation requirements and academic qualifications in collaboration with media houses and educational institutions both within Kenya and internationally.
Omwoyo added that all recommendation letters must be submitted on official letterhead and signed by authorised persons.
By Bernadette Khaduli