Kenya's communications regulator ordered television and radio stations to stop showing live protest coverage on Wednesday. The Communications Authority of Kenya cited constitutional provisions and communications law as reasons for the ban. Officials said live broadcasts might encourage violence during demonstrations marking the anniversary of deadly protests. The regulator pointed to rules that limit speech promoting hatred or threatening public safety. Media companies must follow the order or face heavy fines and possible license cancellation.
The directive targets protests remembering events from June 25, 2024 when demonstrators opposed new tax laws. Authorities worry that real-time coverage could spark more unrest across the...
Thousands of young protesters broke through police barriers and filled State House Road in Nairobi on Wednesday. The demonstrators had started their march at Uhuru Park before pushing past security forces. They wanted to reach the presidential residence as part of their protest movement. Police had set up roadblocks to stop the crowd from advancing toward the protected building. The breakthrough marked the first time protesters had successfully occupied the road leading to State House.
Heavy police forces surrounded the area near the presidential compound. The law requires official permission for anyone to enter this protected zone. Police Chief Douglas Kanja had warned protesters on Tuesday about trying to access restricted areas. He...
Nation Media Group fought back after officials cut the NTV television signal. The Communications Authority ordered all TV and radio stations to stop showing live protest coverage. Company leaders said the government acted without proper legal steps. They called the move a clear attack on press freedom. The media giant plans to take the case to court.
The Constitution protects media independence from government control. Officials cannot punish reporters for their opinions or news content. A recent High Court decision said the Communications Authority cannot control what broadcasters show. The Media Council of Kenya holds that power instead. Proper legal channels exist for handling media complaints.
NTV was covering nationwide protests...
Young protesters filled Murang'a streets Wednesday afternoon during nationwide demonstrations. The march started at 2 PM as crowds walked from the town center to Mukuyu area. Demonstrators carried signs honoring people killed during last year's anti-Finance Bill protests on June 25. Shop owners closed their stores early to protect their businesses from possible damage. The peaceful march continued as protesters returned to the main town area.
Protesters built several fires on the roads as local residents watched the events unfold. Many people took pictures and posed near the burning tires at traffic circles. Anti-riot officers arrived but stayed back at first as some demonstrators approached them for photographs. The crowd moved toward...
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i spoke out Wednesday about young protesters across Kenya. He asked the government and police to respect their rights during demonstrations. The protests mark one year since deadly clashes on June 25, 2024. Matiang'i said the young people have real concerns about their country. He supports their right to speak out against problems.
The former official said protesters worry about unfair taxes and poor school funding. They also fight against corruption and bad leadership decisions. Matiang'i told security forces not to use weapons against citizens. He said peaceful protests should not face violence from authorities. Force will only make the crisis worse for everyone.
At least 60 protesters...
President William Ruto told protesters to follow the law during their demonstrations. He made these comments at a funeral for Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung'aro's father. Ruto said Kenyans have the right to protest but must stay peaceful. He warned against destroying property or disturbing public order. The president stressed that Kenya belongs to everyone and needs protection.
Young protesters gathered across the country on this anniversary date. They marked one year since deadly clashes during anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. Ruto spoke against violence and property damage during protests. He said such actions hurt the real purpose of demonstrations. The president reminded citizens that Kenya is their only home.
Ruto talked about his...
Opposition politicians attacked a government order that stops TV and radio stations from showing live protest coverage. The Communications Authority sent letters to media outlets telling them to stop broadcasting demonstrations immediately. Political leaders said this move hurts democracy and prevents people from getting important news.
Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi said people deserve to know what happens during protests. Wiper party chief Kalonzo Musyoka asked why officials fear media coverage when stations only share information. Both men said the ban violates basic rights that protect free speech and public access to news.
DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa warned the blackout might hide government violence against peaceful...
A police commander walked with protesters through Meru town Wednesday during memorial demonstrations. Ambrose Kyalo wore his full uniform as he joined young demonstrators on the streets. The Imenti North division chief handed out soft drinks to marchers. Videos showed him shaking hands and taking pictures with the crowd. His actions calmed tensions between officers and protesters.
Demonstrators gathered to remember those killed during last year's government protests. The group carried signs demanding justice for dead activists. Some protesters walked on foot and others rode motorcycles through town. Many wore black clothes and face masks to show support. A tire burned on the road as the procession moved forward.
The memorial marked...
Police arrested several people Wednesday after fires damaged Kikuyu Law Courts and local government offices. Protesters clashed with law enforcement for hours throughout Kikuyu town. The demonstrators burned tires on nearby roads during the confrontations. Officers worked to extinguish flames using water and sand with help from civilian workers. Video footage captured the scene as fires spread through the area.
Protesters destroyed a three-wheeled cargo vehicle and heavy machinery at the police station. Court documents scattered across floors inside the damaged buildings. Flames consumed parts of both the courthouse and government offices before crews controlled the blaze. Security forces detained young demonstrators who wore face...
