The Communications Authority has lifted its controversial directive that barred television and radio stations from broadcasting live coverage of protests across the country.
In a letter addressed to all licensed broadcasters and copied to signal distributors, CA Director General David Mugonyi confirmed that the directive had been lifted "forthwith."
“The Authority appreciates your continued support and cooperation,” Mugonyi stated, without offering further comment.
The decision came just hours after the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) issued a stern warning to the regulator, urging immediate compliance with a High Court order suspending the ban.
The court intervened after the LSK filed a petition challenging the legality of the directive.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo accused the CA of acting in contempt of both the Constitution and the courts, describing the ban as "punitive" and "illegal."
“The Law Society has obtained conservatory orders suspending the punitive, arbitrary and illegal directive by the CA,” Odhiambo said.
“The CA must forthwith reinstate all signals it shut down on Wednesday. Contempt of this order will be met with full prosecution of the leadership of CA.”
The High Court order, issued by Justice Chacha Mwita, suspended the CA’s directive—Ref No. CA/CE/BC/TV90A—with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the case.
Justice Mwita ruled that the LSK’s petition raised significant constitutional issues concerning media freedom and the public’s right to information.
“I am satisfied that the pleadings raise fundamental constitutional questions touching on potential violation of the Bill of Rights in the Constitution and freedom of the media, calling for intervention by this court,” the judge said.
The CA’s initial move to halt live broadcasts of the 25 June protests drew widespread condemnation from media houses, civil society organisations, and the public.
While the Authority cited concerns over public order and national security, critics maintained the move was a blatant attempt to suppress press freedom and limit transparency.
