By KPC Reporter
In a dramatic pushback against what they term unconstitutional overreach, Kenya’s leading media organizations have jointly rejected a directive by the Communications Authority (CA) to suspend live coverage of the ongoing nationwide protests.
The Kenya Media Sector Working Group (KMSWG), a coalition representing over a dozen media associations, issued a strong-worded statement Tuesday condemning the CA for acting in defiance of Article 34 of the Constitution and a recent High Court ruling that limits the regulator’s authority over broadcast content.
“The Communications Authority has no mandate to regulate broadcast content. This role is constitutionally reserved for the Media Council of Kenya,” the statement reads in part.
The media bodies have called the CA’s notice “a threat to responsible journalism” and an attempt to stifle media freedom under the guise of national security.
They further warned that actions such as internet shutdowns—reportedly being considered—would directly infringe on constitutional provisions protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and public assembly.
Their fury was further stoked by an incident involving NTV journalist Ruth Sarmwei, who was injured by a rubber bullet while covering the protests.
The organizations demanded accountability and restraint from law enforcement agencies.
“We are a country governed by the rule of law,” the statement continued, urging media houses to “defy this directive and continue with their normal programming without fear.”
The declaration was signed by 14 media organizations, including the Kenya Editors Guild, Kenya Union of Journalists, and Article 19 Eastern Africa, under the banner of protecting editorial independence and the public’s right to be informed.
