CAK Bans Live Broadcast of Protests Amid Rising Tensions in Nairobi

Nairobi — The Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) has ordered all television and radio stations to immediately cease live coverage of the ongoing nationwide protests.

In a directive issued Wednesday afternoon, CAK Director General David Mugonyi said that live coverage of the June 25 demonstrations violates Articles 33(2) and 34(1) of the Constitution and Section 461 of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998. The authority warned that any station defying the order will face regulatory consequences.

“This is to direct all broadcasters to stop any live coverage of the demonstrations forthwith. Failure to comply will attract punitive action,” the notice read.

The protests, marking one year since the deadly anti-finance bill demonstrations in 2024, saw thousands of Kenyans—mainly Gen-Z—flood major cities. In Nairobi, high-profile figures including former Chief Justice David Maraga, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and DAP-Kenya’s Eugene Wamalwa joined protestors and laid flowers near Parliament in honour of those killed last year.

Tensions escalated shortly afterward as riot police clashed with demonstrators in Nairobi’s CBD, firing tear gas to disperse the crowds. Maraga condemned the police’s response, calling it unconstitutional and inhumane.

“We strongly condemn state violence against peaceful demonstrators and grieving families. These violations must end,” Maraga stated.

Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and unarmed. He assured the public that security forces are committed to protecting businesses and critical infrastructure.

“Peace is the foundation of our nation. Let us uphold it together,” Murkomen said.

As protests continue, Kenyans are closely watching how the government balances the right to peaceful assembly with the enforcement of public order.