The nominee for the position of Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication, and Technology, Isaboke, has pledged to prioritize the payment of pending bills owed to media houses and address the issue of salary delays, particularly at the national broadcaster, KBC. Isaboke, a former MultiChoice Group official, made these remarks during his appearance before the National Assembly’s Information, Communication, and Technology Committee.
Amid growing concerns over the state of media freedom in the country, Isaboke assured the committee that he would uphold media freedom, a right enshrined in the Constitution. He emphasized that any issues arising would be addressed through engagement with stakeholders. “Media freedom is one of the rights protected in the constitution, my approach will be to always refer to the law,” he stated.
One of his key priorities is the settlement of outstanding payments to media houses. The government owes significant amounts to private media stations, affecting their ability to meet contractual obligations, including the payment of salaries to employees. Isaboke highlighted his commitment to lobbying within the government to ensure these pending bills are cleared, thereby supporting the financial stability of media outlets.
Isaboke also addressed the recurring salary disputes at KBC, where employees have staged protests due to delayed payments. He acknowledged the severity of the issue and promised a strategic turnaround plan for the broadcaster, which he described as a “rich old man owning real estate but walking in tatters.” His plan involves optimizing KBC’s resources, including its land, to generate revenue and modernize the institution’s infrastructure.
Responding to concerns raised by Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Osogo about the impact of delayed salaries on journalists’ morale and their ability to communicate effectively with the public, Isaboke reiterated his commitment to addressing these challenges and ensuring that media personnel are well-compensated and motivated.
The committee will proceed with a retreat to draft a report for presentation to the House next week, where Isaboke’s nomination will be considered.
