The Standard Group has openly defied an alleged directive from the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) ordering all television and radio stations to immediately cease live broadcasting of ongoing demonstrations. In a strong statement released today, The Standard Group affirmed its commitment to continue broadcasting in the public interest, pending legal consultation.
The media group revealed that while KTN and its radio stations such as Radio Maisha, Spice and Berur have not yet received official copies of the CA’s order, editors from other media houses have confirmed the existence of such a directive. Furthermore, The Standard Group stated that it has received information indicating the Communication Authority has instructed signal carriers to deplatform any media house conducting live broadcasts of the demonstrations.
In response to this potential crackdown on media freedom, The Standard Group announced that it is “consulting our lawyers to establish the legality of this order, which aims to plunge the country into a news blackout.” This move signals a resolute stance against what it perceives as an attempt to stifle information dissemination during a critical period of public unrest.
The statement also highlighted that this is not an isolated incident, noting that similar threats were issued by the CA last year during the anti-Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations, which saw protesters breach Parliament. This historical context underscores a pattern of attempts to control media coverage during periods of significant public protest.
By choosing to continue its broadcasts 9n demonstrations across the country, The Standard Group is sending a clear message about the importance of press freedom and the public’s right to information, especially during times of national significance. Its decision to challenge the alleged state orders sets a precedent for other media houses and emphasizes the critical role of independent journalism in a democratic society. The unfolding situation will undoubtedly be closely watched by media freedom advocates and the public alike.
By Kenyans