The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Uganda has condemned the move by the Kenyan government to shut down several mainstream media stations for live coverage of the June 25, 2025, Gen Z memorial protests.
In a statement on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, NAB castigated the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) for trying to suppress the freedom of the press.
“The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Uganda expresses deep concern over the directive issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) dated June 25, 2025, instructing television and radio broadcasters to cease live coverage of ongoing demonstrations. As a fraternity of media industry, professionals and institutions committed to the promotion of press freedom, democratic values, and responsible journalism, we stand in solidarity with our colleagues in Kenya, Media freedom is a bedrock of democracy and undue interference with it is an attack on people’s fundamental human rights. Live coverage of public demonstrations is a pillar of transparent and accountable governance and a fundamental aspect of the public’s right to know,” NAB stated.
“We respectfully urge the Communications Authority of Kenya and the Government of the Republic of Kenya to uphold the principles enshrined in their own Constitution, especially Articles 33 and 34, which protect freedom of expression and independence of the media. Curtailing such freedoms risks undermining public trust, silencing diverse voices, and eroding democratic norms.”
NAB has called on all parties to engage in dialogue, safeguard journalistic integrity, and reaffirm a commitment to press freedom, especially during moments of national importance and heightened public interest.
“In solidarity with Kenyan broadcasters, we continue to advocate for a region where media can operate freely, professionally, and in the public interest,” NAB added.
Stations shut down
Leading mainstream TV stations such as K24 TV, Kameme TV, KTN, Citizen TV and NTV were shut down during the protests after a directive by CA requiring the media houses to halt live coverage of the demos.
“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 as stipulated in the Kenya Information and Communication Act, 1998,” CA Director-General David Mugonyi stated.
Mediamax Network Ltd, which owns K24 and Kameme TV stations, stated that the shutdown occurred in response to what it described as an unlawful directive from the Communications Authority, instructing media houses to halt live coverage of the Gen Z protest commemoration.
“We wish to inform our customers that the Communications Authority (CA) switched off our K24 broadcast signal in clear violation of the Constitution and a High Court decision in relation to the coverage of live events,” Mediamax stated.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK), in conjunction with a broad coalition of civil society groups, issued a stern warning to CA regarding its directive to ban live coverage of the Gen Z-led protests.
In a joint statement released Wednesday, June 25, 2025, the coalition—which includes the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) and the Police Reforms Working Group (PRWG)—condemned the CA’s order as a violation of constitutional rights and an overreach of its mandate.
“This directive is a dangerous step towards suppressing fundamental freedoms in Kenya,” the groups declared.
Francis Muli
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