Rev. Timothy Njoya being beaten by KANU goons in the 90’s.
By Peter Mwibanda.
NAIROBI, Kenya.
Kenya is teetering on the edge of democratic backsliding after the Communications Authority abruptly suspended live TV broadcasts during Gen Z-led protests this week, sparking outrage over what critics call a blatant assault on constitutional freedoms.
The blackout—targeting major networks including NTV and KTN—came as thousands of young people took to the streets demanding accountability, justice, and an end to corruption. Instead of supporting the public’s right to know, the state moved to silence it.
“This wasn’t just a switch-off of TV signals. It was an attempt to shut off truth, transparency, and the people’s right to witness history as it unfolds,” said media and governance analyst Peter Mwibanda.
Constitution Under Threat.
Kenya’s 2010 Constitution enshrines media freedom and civic participation. Article 33 guarantees freedom of expression.
Article 34 protects media independence. Article 35 affirms the right to access information. Article 37 secures the right to peaceful assembly.
When the regulator pulled the plug on live coverage, it wasn’t merely administrative—it was unconstitutional.
“This is a dangerous precedent,” Mwibanda said. “We are watching the erosion of rights that so many fought for.”
Echoes of the Past.
For older Kenyans, the move evoked memories of the KANU-era repression, when media censorship, intimidation, and propaganda were state tools. The 2010 Constitution was meant to bury that chapter.
“This is not just about media. It’s about silencing the people. We cannot allow Kenya to slide back into authoritarianism while the world moves forward,” Mwibanda said.
Media and Youth Are Pillars of Democracy.
Kenya’s Gen Z has redefined civic engagement—using smartphones, social media, and grassroots organization to push for reforms. But mainstream media remains essential for amplifying and legitimizing these voices.
Silencing the press, critics argue, is silencing the movement.
“The media is not the enemy. An informed public is not a threat. Our institutions must remember they serve the people—not the powerful,” Mwibanda said.
A Call to Defend Democracy.
As public confidence in institutions wanes, Mwibanda urged citizens, journalists, and civil society to remain vigilant.
“This must not be normalized. Kenya is at a crossroads: uphold the vision of the 2010 Constitution, or retreat into repression. The choice is ours,” he said.
The Katiba Institute has moved to court to challenge the CA’s directive, while media watchdogs warn of a chilling effect on press freedom.
One thing is clear: Kenya’s democratic gains must be protected—not switched off.
For The IntellectualsPost.
