The New York Times have today expressed their plan to create clear guidelines following the uproar over their coverage of the Dusit Attack.
Do they have a consistent policy for the publication of graphic images? If not, are there plans to implement one?
New York Times say that as a result of the concerns from their readers that the photo raised, they are going to convene a group of people to come up with clearer guidelines.
New York Times also gave an in depth explanation as to why they decided to publish their articles with gory images while covering the Dusit attack.
“The publication of graphic images is never taken lightly at The Times. Many people across the newsroom are involved in difficult conversations, weighing the desire to be sensitive and respectful of victims and their families with our mission to give readers a clear view of what’s happening in the world.” reads part of their publication
The vivid explanation has still not been welcomed by a section of Kenyans who feel that the media house is only trying to justify their actions.
Kenyans have also added that all they want is an apology and the pulling down of the said photos.
Media personalities have jumped in to question the decision by the New York Times even though they expressed their possibility of implementing their policies after the uproar that resulted after the Dusit attack photos.
Have a look at the reactions from Kenyans
So essentially @nytimes are forming a committee to come up with guidelines that will shape their photos policy. I trust those guidelines will be made public?
— Waihiga Mwaura ?? (@WaihigaMwaura) January 18, 2019
Honestly we’re tired of your rubbish explanations. ?
— Kambua (@Kambua) January 18, 2019
Honestly we are tried of hearing about “the reasons why……” WE just want the photos taken down !!! How else can we interpret it for you??!!
— Patricia (@patricia_langat) January 18, 2019
We’re not backing down from our position, pull the photo down. We don’t want to hear your reasoning or schooling on journalism. Y’all can do that later. @nytimes
— Emmanuel Michira (@Anuelmich) January 18, 2019
Have a look at their post
Dear readers in Kenya: Here is Why The Times Published a Disturbing Photo of Dead Bodies After an Attack in Nairobi https://t.co/CVCj6aw815
— Kimiko de Freytas-Tamura (@kimidefreytas) January 18, 2019