Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has come out strongly against the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) following its directive for TV and radio stations to cease live coverage of the June 25, 2025 protests.

The protests, led by Kenyan youth in memory of the Gen Z victims of 2024, have stirred national debate, but the government’s latest move to restrict media coverage has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and civil rights groups.

Addressing the press in Nairobi, Kalonzo accused CA of infringing on media freedom and the constitutional right to information, terming the directive as a deliberate attempt to hide the truth from Kenyans and shield those in power from public accountability.

“We shall move to court to challenge this impunity, there’s a reason they don’t want you to see what’s going on. Maybe there’s darkness being hidden from the people of Kenya,” Kalonzo said.

According to Kalonzo, such actions by the government signal a troubling regression in democratic values and civil liberties, especially in a country that prides itself on its 2010 Constitution which guarantees freedom of the press.

“The media is not the enemy, it is the mirror of society,” he added. “When you cover a protest, you are not promoting violence, you are informing a nation. If the state is uncomfortable with that, then the question we must ask is, what are they hiding?”

Kalonzo further warned that the silencing of media in times of public unrest sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden more draconian actions in future. He urged other leaders, civil society, and the public to resist such orders that seek to stifle transparency and democratic expression.

Kalonzo’s sentiments were echoed by former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi who noted that shutting down live coverage is a blatant distortion of Kenyan law. 

“Our courts have long held that media freedom can only be limited by the most compelling and lawful justifications. The High Court has been clear that any restriction must pass the constitutional test under Article 24. It must be lawful, reasonable, and justifiable in a democratic society,” Muturi noted in a statement.

Muturi added that as Chairperson of the People’s Restorative Justice Commission, he was profoundly disturbed by the unconstitutional gag order issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya to media houses covering public protests. 

“I have convened the Commission to deliberate on this matter, and I have already engaged with fellow leaders in the United Opposition Movement who have today stood with our young people on the streets in commemorating June 25th,” he added.

The Communication Authority is yet to respond to growing pressure over its controversial directive. However, many observers fear the move may escalate tensions as the nation continues to commemorate the departed souls with fears of increased civic action from a restless and grieving youth population.