Nairobi, Kenya – Public Service Principal Secretary Jane Kere Imbunya has addressed a viral video showing her ejecting journalists from an event she presided over in Vihiga County, sparking debate on press freedom and leadership conduct.
In an interview with a local radio station on Monday, February 9, 2026, Imbunya defended her actions, insisting they were taken out of context and misinterpreted.
“Haikuwa kutowaheshimu ama kuwadhalilisha. Siwezi kufanya jambo lile kwa sababu nyinyi kama wanahabari ndio my first customers kama Public Service PS,” she explained.
(Translation: “It was not to demean or disrespect them. I can’t do such a thing because the press is among my first customers as Public Service PS.”)
Healthy Relationship with Media
The PS emphasized her longstanding positive relationship with journalists and media houses, citing her interactions with local stations and reporters as evidence of mutual respect.
“Nyumba za habari na wanahabari wote nchini Kenya tumekuwa na uhusiano wa karibu (we have had a very healthy relationship with media houses and journalists in the country),” she added.
The Viral Incident
The controversy stems from footage showing Imbunya ordering journalists to remove their microphones and equipment during her address in Vihiga. In the video, she is heard saying:
“Hey, cameramen, I am saying something here; there are too many.”
She then threatened to remove the microphones herself, insisting they obstructed residents’ view of her speech. Notably, the video shows only three microphones positioned strategically, with attendees still able to see her clearly.
Public Reaction
The confrontation quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from Kenyans who argued that her conduct undermined press freedom and reflected poorly on her office. Calls for her dismissal have since emerged, with critics saying her actions lacked humility and accountability expected of public leaders.
Conclusion
While Imbunya maintains that her actions were misunderstood, the incident has reignited debate on the balance between leadership protocol and media freedoms in Kenya. As public scrutiny intensifies, the controversy underscores the importance of transparency and respect in government-media relations.
