The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) - Uganda has voiced strong opposition to a directive by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) that bars media houses from broadcasting live coverage of ongoing demonstrations in the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NAB Uganda expressed deep concern over the move, calling it a threat to media freedom and democratic governance.
The directive, which was issued on June 25, 2025, instructs all radio and television broadcasters in Kenya to halt live coverage of the public protests.
"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," the association stated.
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"Media freedom is a bedrock of democracy and undue interference with it is an attack on people's fundamental human rights."
The Ugandan broadcasters emphasized that live coverage of public demonstrations plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in governance. "It is a fundamental aspect of the public's right to know," they added.
NAB Uganda went further to remind Kenyan authorities of their constitutional obligations, urging them to uphold Articles 33 and 34 of the Kenyan Constitution.
"These articles protect freedom of expression and independence of the media. Curtailing such freedoms risks undermining public trust, silencing diverse voices, and eroding democratic norms," the statement read.
The association called on all stakeholders to seek dialogue and reaffirm their commitment to journalistic integrity and media independence, especially during times of national significance.
"In solidarity with Kenyan broadcasters, we continue to advocate for a region where media can operate freely, professionally, and in the public interest," NAB Uganda concluded.
The statement comes amid ongoing anti-government protests in Kenya, where authorities have increasingly clamped down on press coverage, sparking regional and international criticism.
Earlier, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) had also condemned the ban, warning that it amounts to unconstitutional censorship.
In a press release, LSK accused the Communications Authority of attempting to shield state excesses from public scrutiny.
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"Suppressing live broadcasts of public protests violates both the Constitution and international democratic standards," the society stated.
The LSK further urged the CAK to rescind the directive, citing Articles 33 and 34 of the Constitution that protect media freedom and the public's right to information.
"This is not just a media issue--it is a citizen issue. Free flow of information is essential for accountability," the statement read.
Both the LSK and NAB Uganda now join a growing chorus of civil society groups demanding the immediate reversal of the media restrictions imposed during Kenya's Gen Z-led protests.
