Entry Instance

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{
    "id": 600777,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/600777/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 52,
    "type": "other",
    "speaker_name": "",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Ngirachu requested to be allowed time to call his lawyers before recording his statement, which delayed the recording of the statement. The invitation extended to Mr. Ngirachu to record a statement was informed by the provision of Section 52 of the National Police Service Act, 2011, which gives police officers powers to summon any person while endeavoring to discover the author of a crime and put any question, whether suspected or not. The invitation was for purposes of offering the journalist the opportunity to explain how confidential information was released for publication and to determine whether a criminal offence had been committed and if so, by whom. Mr. Speaker, Sir, Chapter 4 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 relating to the Bill of Rights and in particular, Article 34 (2) (b), providing for the freedom of media has not been amended. The media, however, is expected on its part to disseminate information that is fair, correct and which will not put to risk national security. In particular, the information published should not infringe on the rights and freedom of any person, of which security of every person is the Ministry’s responsibility as provided for by Article 19 (1) (b) and Article 24 (1) (d), which provides for the need to ensure that the enjoyment of rights and fundamental freedoms by any individual does not prejudice the rights and fundamental freedoms of others. The enjoyment of rights and fundamental freedom is a mutual situation and must be safeguarded by all, including State organs against abuse. I wish to categorically state that, as a Cabinet Secretary in charge of security, I have no intention to drive the nation back to yesteryears. I wish to clarify that we are cognizant of the different avenues through which the media dispute may be resolved. However, where a criminal offence has been committed and while pursuing the civil remedy and mediation or arbitration, the same should not deter the State from acting on criminal acts perpetrated by anybody. Lastly, it is the position of the Government that any allegation made by anybody, including the media as regards to the Government, must be substantiated, while those making the allegation must be held responsible."
}