The Kenyan government has ordered all television and radio stations to halt live coverage of ongoing protests commemorating the first anniversary of last year’s deadly anti-government demonstrations.
The Communications Authority of Kenya issued a directive on Wednesday, stating that broadcasting the protests live violates constitutional regulations.
“All television and radio stations are hereby directed to stop any live coverage of the demonstrations forthwith,” the agency said in a statement.
The protests mark one year since a surge of unrest over economic conditions led to a violent crackdown by security forces, resulting in at least 60 deaths.
In Nairobi, the anniversary demonstrations began peacefully but quickly turned chaotic. Protesters clashed with heavily armed police who fired tear gas, deployed batons, and sealed off government buildings using barbed wire.
One striking image from downtown Nairobi shows a protester being struck by a police baton, while another captures a demonstrator wrapped in tear gas as they hold a Kenyan flag—symbolic moments that have sparked outrage both offline and online.
Despite the government ban, most major Kenyan media outlets continued their live broadcasts.
The Standard Group, which operates multiple TV, radio, and print platforms, labeled the move a “news blackout” and announced its decision to keep broadcasting.
“We are aware that the Communications Authority has ordered signal carriers to deplatform any media house airing live footage,” the group said.
“We faced similar threats during the 2024 protests, and we will not be silenced.”
Amnesty International condemned the blackout, stating that suppressing media freedom is not a viable solution.
“Silencing the press only fuels public mistrust and denies citizens access to vital information,” the human rights group said.
