By Dorothy Musyoka
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a directive to all television and radio stations to cease the live broadcast of the ongoing demonstrations taking place across the country on June 25.
In a public notice released earlier today, the Authority cited violations of constitutional and regulatory provisions as the basis for its decision. According to CA, continued live coverage of the protests poses risks to public safety and order, and may escalate tension by broadcasting violent or provocative scenes in real-time.
“The live coverage of the June 25th demonstrations are contrary to articles 33(2) and 34(1) of the Constitution of Kenya and section 461 of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998,” read the statement.
“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, 19198,” the statement read in part.
The directive comes amid a day of heightened public demonstrations, with citizens in major towns and cities taking to the streets to express their grievances.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Communications Authority affirmed that it will closely monitor all broadcast content and take further action if necessary to ensure compliance with the law.