The Kenya Editors’ Guild (KEG) and Kenya Media Sector Working Group (KMSWG) have condemned the Communications Authority of Kenya’s (CA) Wednesday June 25th 2025 directive of suspending live coverage of all media houses covering the ongoing protests terming CA’s move unconstitutional and a threat to press freedom.

While KEG has termed the move “a gross violation of the Constitution and an affront to press freedom and public accountability,” KMSWG has emphasized independent journalism by quoting a recent high court ruling which limited CA’s regulatory powers over broadcast content.

‎‎“We remind the CA that, according to the recent High Court ruling, it lacks the mandate to regulate broadcast content. This authority has been constitutionally vested in the Media Council of Kenya,” KMSWG statement read.

This sentiments were echoed by KEG which argued that the courts ruling was clear on unlawful censorship.

The two groups said any efforts to silence or censor the media not only violate Article 34 of the Constitution which guarantees media freedom but also undermine democratic accountability, especially during times of national significance.‎‎‎‎

KMSWG warned CA of any possible internet disruptions stating that by doing so they will be violating their constitutional duty.

“CA is constitutionally obligated to ensure uninterrupted internet access, which is a fundamental right under Articles 33 (freedom of expression), 35 (access to information) and related provisions of the Constitution of Kenya. Any attempt to disrupt or suspend internet services undermines these rights and contravenes the rule of law,” the group said.‎‎

The group further advocated for press freedom by condemning a shooting of a journalist from Nation Media Group.

“We strongly condemn the shooting of NTV journalist Ruth Sarmwei with a rubber bullet while performing her professional duties,” KMSWG noted.

On the other hand KEG issued five key demands to CA among them; Immediate withdrawal of the directive, respect of 2023 Judicial orders, protection of the public’s right to know which should allow live coverage, support of independent journalism and Parliament and Judiciary to investigate CA’s conduct and enforce compliance with the Constitution.

In a defiance move, the two major groups urged all media houses to go on with their normal operations without fear.