Kenyan Government Bans Live Coverage of Protests on Anti-Finance Bill Anniversary

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has directed all television and radio stations to stop live coverage of the ongoing nationwide protests taking place today,  Wednesday, 25 June 2025.

In a memo sent to all broadcasters, CA Director General David Mugonyi said the live transmission of the demonstrations goes against the Kenyan Constitution, as well as the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998.

This is therefore to direct all television and radio stations to stop any live coverage of the demonstrations forthwith. Failure to abide by this directive will result in regulatory action,” the statement read.

The CA is the government agency responsible for regulating Kenya’s ICT sector, including broadcasting. It has warned that media houses defying the order will be sanctioned.

The protests mark one year since the deadly anti-Finance Bill demonstrations of 2024, in which dozens of young Kenyans were killed by police. Rights groups and civil society organisations blamed the government for the excessive use of force during the protests, which erupted over proposed tax hikes and rising cost of living.

Demonstrators returned to the streets on Wednesday carrying flags, placards and photos of those killed during last year’s protests. Many waved Kenyan flags and held placards with the names and faces of those who died last year. The popular chant “Ruto must go” reportedly echoed across the capital and other cities.

Police had earlier blocked major roads leading into the Central Business District (CBD) in Nairobi, and surrounded key government buildings with barbed wire. Tensions escalated later in the day after police fired tear gas to disperse crowds that had gathered in the CBD.

Several high-profile political leaders reportedly joined the demonstrators in the capital, including former Chief Justice David Maraga, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.

Speaking to the press, Maraga condemned the unlawful use of force on peaceful protesters and grieving families. He said the violent response by the state was a blatant violation of the Constitution and a threat to civil liberties.

Wednesday’s protests are not just about the Finance Bill anniversary, but also recent incidents of police brutality. As earlier reported by West Africa Weekly, public outrage has intensified in recent weeks following the death of activist and blogger Albert Ojwang, who died earlier this month while in police custody. He had been arrested after posting content online that criticised a senior police officer.

Instead of addressing the grievances of the citizens, the media blackout directive has been put in place to undermine the public’s right to access information during a significant national moment.

Read More:

• 2 Dead, Over 10 Injured as Police Open Fire on Protesters During June 25 Anniversary Demonstrations in Kenya
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