Judge Chacha Mwita suspended CA directive of switching off signals of KTN, K24 and NTV. Photo: Courtesy.
The Milimani High Court suspended the directive by Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), which directed a stop of live broadcast of the Gen Z one year anniversary protests.
The case under Justice Chacha Mwita directed that the Authority to restore the switched signals for KTN, NTV and K24 with immediate effect until the case is heard and determined.
“A conservatory order is HEREBY ISSUED suspending, with immediate effect, the DIRECTIVE Ref No. CA/CE/BC/TV90A, or any other directive issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya to all television and radio stations directing them to stop live coverage of the demonstrations of 25th June 2025, or any other demonstrations, until the hearing and determination of the application and petition,” read the court order.
CA directive has ordered a stop of the live coverage of the anti-government protests, arguing that the protests posed a threat to national security, which CA did not highlight.
The court also permitted service of the court order via email, live television broadcasts, or publication in newspapers to ensure broad public awareness.
The suspension as criticism continued to be directed towards Kenya Kwanza government, for failing to uphold the 2023 High Court ruling that restrained CA from interfering with live media broadcasts, further reinforcing that no government agency may impose prior restraint on the press.
According to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the directive by CA is unconstitutional and dishonest, and an infringement to the rights of the press as stated in Article 35 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
“Article 34(1) guarantees freedom of the media. Article 35 further guarantees the right of access to information. These constitutional rights are not suggestions. They are the law. The CA’s attempt to censor live coverage of today’s protests under the guise of legality is both dishonest and unconstitutional,” he said.
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi condemned the directive as the beginning of anarchy by the Kenya Kwanza government.
