The Communications Authority of Kenya has directed all television and radio stations to stop live coverage of the June 25 demonstrations in what many see as a blatant attack on press freedom.
In a notice signed by Director General David Mugonyi, the CA claimed that airing the protests violates Article 33(2) and 34(1) of the Constitution, as well as Section 461 of the Kenya Information and Communications Act.
Mugonyi further warned that failure to comply would lead to regulatory action against media houses. This directive comes as hundreds of Kenyans, most of them young, poured into the streets on Wednesday morning to mark the first anniversary of last year’s anti-finance bill protests that left many dead.
Instead of allowing the media to freely document these events, Ruto’s administration chose to gag coverage and hide what is happening from the public. This is not only an attack on the media it is a clear indication that the government does not want the truth aired.
Across Nairobi and other parts of the country, prominent leaders including former Chief Justice David Maraga, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and DAP-Kenya’s Eugene Wamalwa joined protesters in solidarity.
However, shortly after, chaos broke out in Nairobi’s Central Business District when anti-riot police attacked demonstrators with tear gas. This violent response by police only confirms the regime’s growing intolerance to public dissent.
Maraga, speaking moments after arriving in the CBD, openly criticized the excessive force used on peaceful protesters. He stated that such actions go against the Constitution and violate the rights of grieving families and citizens exercising their freedoms.
“We strongly condemn the use of state violence against grieving families and peaceful protesters. The flagrant violation of the Constitution and human rights must stop,” he said.
What is unfolding is a direct reflection of a government afraid of its people, afraid of the truth, and afraid of accountability.
By silencing the media, Ruto’s administration has taken Kenya several steps back from democracy, choosing repression over dialogue and brutality over transparency.
Add Comment