Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai has accused NTV of misleading the public after the station promoted Monday night’s interview with Siaya Governor James Orengo as a segment in which he would name alleged ODM party betrayers.
During the broadcast, Orengo discussed internal party disagreements but did not reveal any names.
“For the moment, they remain unnamed. There are people who are going out of their way to try to get ODM into agreements that do not make sense,” he said, leaving viewers without the expected exposé.
Alai criticized NTV’s promotion strategy, claiming it amounted to “false advertising.” Taking to social media, he called on the Media Council of Kenya to hold the broadcaster accountable.
“Orengo has no evidence so NTV engaged in false advertising. Where is the expose of the identities as claimed in this post? Orengo says he can’t name. So what was NTV advertising?” Alai questioned.
He also accused the station of chasing attention through misinformation, labeling it part of a wider media agenda.
This episode raises broader questions about journalistic responsibility, particularly in politically sensitive contexts.
Critics argue that overstated promotions risk misleading the public and fueling unnecessary political tension.
NTV, known for its high-profile political interviews, has not responded to Alai’s accusations.
The incident also highlights the challenge for politicians and media alike: balancing transparency, commentary, and the public’s expectation for concrete disclosures.
As ODM navigates alliances and strategic decisions ahead of the 2027 elections, accurate reporting on internal dynamics is becoming increasingly critical.
Misleading headlines or promotional exaggerations, some observers warn, could distort public perception and harm both media credibility and political discourse.