By The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) – Uganda has issued a strong statement condemning the move by Kenya’s communications regulator to block live coverage of ongoing anti-government protests, calling it a blow to media freedom and democratic accountability.
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The statement, released in Kampala on Tuesday, expressed “deep concern” over the directive issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK), which ordered television and radio stations to stop broadcasting live footage of the demonstrations currently sweeping parts of Kenya.
“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 NAB statement read.
The Ugandan broadcasters’ umbrella body stressed that media freedom is not only a constitutional right but also a cornerstone of democracy and transparent governance. It warned that censoring coverage of public demonstrations erodes public trust, silences diverse voices, and undermines civic engagement.
The statement specifically cited Articles 33 and 34 of Kenya’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and independence of the media, urging the Kenyan authorities to honor these protections.
“Live coverage of public demonstrations is a pillar of transparent and accountable governance and a fundamental aspect of the public’s right to know,” NAB Uganda stated.
The broadcasters further called for calm, dialogue, and a recommitment to press freedom by all parties, particularly during times of political tension or public unrest.
“We continue to advocate for a region where media can operate freely, professionally, and in the public interest,” the statement concluded.
The Kenyan government’s directive comes amid growing nationwide protests led by youth movements and civil society groups demanding economic reforms and better governance. Critics of the media ban have described it as an attempt to conceal the scale and grievances of the demonstrations from both the public and the international community.
The NAB Uganda statement is one of the first regional responses to the media blackout, underscoring growing concern across East Africa over press freedom and democratic space.
