Court suspends ban on live protest coverage, orders restoration of switched-off signals

"A conservatory order is HEREBY ISSUED suspending, with immediate effect, the DIRECTIVE Ref No. CA/CE/BC/TV90A, or any other directive issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya to all television and radio stations directing them to stop live coverage of the demonstrations of 25th June 2025, or any other demonstrations, until the hearing and determination of the application and petition," reads the court order.

The directive from CA had instructed all broadcasters to cease live coverage of the June 25th protests, citing undisclosed security concerns.

However, in its ruling, the court found the directive potentially unconstitutional and ordered its immediate suspension pending the hearing and determination of a petition challenging its legality.

Justice Chacha Mwita further directed that any broadcasting signals that may have been switched off following the implementation of the directive be restored without delay.

The court also permitted service of the court order via email, live television broadcasts, or publication in newspapers to ensure broad public awareness.

This development comes amid growing criticism from civil society and media stakeholders, who have accused the government of suppressing press freedom and denying the public access to information.