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 protesters. He said officials want darkness to cover their actions and noted that military forces gathered at Nyayo stadium. Wamalwa believes authorities plan to use force against citizens without witnesses.
The Communications Authority claimed TV and radio stations broke constitutional rules and communication laws. Officials threatened to punish any station that continues live coverage of the nationwide demonstrations. The order came as protesters marked one year since deadly clashes with police during anti-government rallies.
Legal groups and civil rights organizations promised to sue the Communications Authority if it refuses to cancel the directive. The Law Society of Kenya gave officials until 4pm to withdraw the order or face court action. Opposition leaders vowed to fight any attempts to silence media coverage and urged citizens to protect their constitutional freedoms.
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 protesters. He said officials want darkness to cover their actions and noted that military forces gathered at Nyayo stadium. Wamalwa believes authorities plan to use force against citizens without witnesses.
The Communications Authority claimed TV and radio stations broke constitutional rules and communication laws. Officials threatened to punish any station that continues live coverage of the nationwide demonstrations. The order came as protesters marked one year since deadly clashes with police during anti-government rallies.
Legal groups and civil rights organizations promised to sue the Communications Authority if it refuses to cancel the directive. The Law Society of Kenya gave officials until 4pm to withdraw the order or face court action. Opposition leaders vowed to fight any attempts to silence media coverage and urged citizens to protect their constitutional freedoms.
