Communications Authority Orders Media Blackout on Protest Coverage
In a controversial move, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has ordered all television and radio stations to halt live broadcasts of the ongoing June 25 demonstrations.
On Wednesday, CA Director General David Mugonyi released a firm directive, accusing media houses of violating key legal provisions.
“The live coverage of the June 25th, 2025, demonstrations is contrary to Articles 33(2) and 34(1) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 461 of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998,”
Mugonyi stated in the notice.
He didn’t stop there.
“This is therefore to direct all television and radio stations to stop any live coverage of the demonstrations forthwith,”
he added.
“Failure to abide by this directive will result in regulatory action as stipulated in the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998.”
Protesters Flood Streets Despite Silence
Despite the media blackout, hundreds of protesters took to the streets, marking one year since the deadly anti-finance protests that claimed dozens of young lives.
In Nairobi, former Chief Justice David Maraga, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa joined the demonstrations. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also marched alongside the angry crowds.
But tension quickly escalated.
Soon after, chaos erupted in the CBD as anti-riot police confronted protesters, releasing tear gas to scatter the swelling masses.
Maraga: State Violence Must Stop
Moments after arriving in Nairobi’s CBD, Maraga spoke to the press, visibly disturbed by what he witnessed.
“We strongly condemn the use of state violence against grieving families and peaceful protesters,”
he declared.
“The flagrant violation of the Constitution and human rights must stop.”
His remarks added weight to the growing anger over both police conduct and media censorship.
Interior Ministry Calls for Calm
“As you go about your daily activities, be assured that your safety and the protection of your livelihoods are our top priority,”
Murkomen stated in a morning press release.
He added:
“For those who will turn up to exercise their constitutional right to demonstrate, we urge them to do so peacefully and unarmed as provided for in our laws.”
“Peace is the foundation for a strong and prosperous Nation; let us all join hands to uphold it.”
Nation Divided as Protests Go Dark
The blackout has drawn sharp criticism from rights groups and citizens alike. Many fear that silencing media will only fuel misinformation, hide brutality, and weaken democracy
With the streets still boiling and TV screens gone dark, Kenyans are left to wonder — what else is being hidden?
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Communications Authority Orders Media Blackout on Protest Coverage
