COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has taken a swipe at the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) for challenging the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) over its controversial directive to halt live coverage of anti-government protests. Atwoli defended the CA’s initial decision, saying it was made in the national interest to safeguard Kenya’s image and stability.
The directive, issued earlier this week, instructed broadcasters not to air live footage of ongoing demonstrations. The CA cited concerns over national security and public safety. However, the move sparked public outrage and a swift legal response from the LSK, which termed the ban unconstitutional and a violation of media freedom.
On Thursday, the High Court issued temporary orders suspending the directive after the LSK filed a petition. In compliance, CA Director General David Mugonyi issued a notice lifting the ban “forthwith,” though no detailed explanation was offered for the reversal.
Speaking at a public event in Nairobi shortly after the ban was lifted, Atwoli criticized the LSK’s legal action as “misguided” and warned that such court challenges could have long-term consequences for the country’s economic stability and global image.
“The Communications Authority said, ‘Do not air this thing. It is not good for our country.’ Then people go to court, saying it is unconstitutional. Challenging a government office,” Atwoli lamented. He added that the judiciary’s intervention only complicated efforts to protect Kenya’s reputation during turbulent times.
Atwoli further argued that live broadcasts of protests harm the country’s international standing, citing reports of investors withdrawing from Kenya due to the unrest. “They are relocating from Kenya to other places. We are losing investment,” he said.
He likened the coverage to international broadcasts from countries experiencing prolonged instability, such as Iran and Israel, which he claimed deter investors and tourists.
The episode has reignited debate around media freedom versus national security in Kenya, with civil society groups applauding the court’s decision and urging authorities to uphold constitutional protections, even in times of political tension.
