Standard Group has refused to pull the plug on its live coverage of nationwide demonstrations, brushing off a Communications Authority of Kenya directive that demands an immediate blackout.
The media company says the order—delivered on Wednesday afternoon—flies in the face of Articles 33 and 34 of Kenya’s Constitution, which protect free speech and press freedom.
“Our position is that the order is illegal and directly contravenes Sections 33 and 34 of the Constitution,” the statement reads in part.
Management also claims the regulator went a step further, instructing signal carriers to de-platform any outlet that keeps broadcasting the rallies in real time.
“Consequently, we will sue any signal carrier who switches our channels off air without any explanation that can stand the scrutiny of the law, justice, fairness and reason,” the company warned.
Editors at KTN, Radio Maisha and sister stations say they have instructed lawyers to prepare for possible injunctions and damages should their signals be cut.
The standoff erupted as thousands of Kenyans marked the first anniversary of last year’s deadly anti-tax protests, with fresh rallies erupting in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and other towns. Police fired tear gas and water cannon at crowds; local rights groups reported several injuries by late afternoon.
Other newsrooms, backed by the Kenya Editors’ Guild, have declared the directive unenforceable, urging journalists to “stand firm” and keep cameras rolling in the public interest.
The CA has yet to issue a detailed public justification for its move, leaving questions about the legal basis for the threatened shutdown. Analysts warn any blackout could deepen public mistrust and fuel speculation during a volatile moment.
Here’s Standard Media Group’s full statement:
