Evans Momanyi, Chairman of the Capital Youths Caucus, has called on the media to strengthen its role as a watchdog for the public, urging journalists to remain firm in holding leaders accountable.

Speaking during an end-year party for KBC Mombasa staff, Momanyi emphasized the trust citizens place in journalists to expose wrongdoing and safeguard public interest.

“It is you, the media, that we will look up to and depend on. Your duty is to ensure you report and highlight any wrongdoings in our society and also put our leaders on toes,” he said.

Momanyi also urged the government to guarantee that the media operates in a free and conducive environment, stressing that freedom of the press is essential for any democratic society. He appealed to authorities to respect and protect journalists’ rights as they carry out their watchdog role.

“The government must ensure the media works in a free space. Freedom of the media and freedom of expression are not privileges they are rights that must be upheld,” he added.

He further called for unity among the Mombasa media fraternity, noting that collaboration and solidarity are crucial in navigating the challenges facing the industry.

Momanyi encouraged journalists across different stations and platforms to support one another, share resources where possible, and foster a spirit of mutual respect to strengthen the region’s media landscape.