Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has launched a scathing attack on sections of the Kenyan media, accusing them of actively aiding the mobilisation of anti-government protesters during the June 25, 2025 demonstrations that shook cities across the country.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, June 26, Murkomen acknowledged that media freedom is enshrined in the Constitution but warned that some journalists and media houses had crossed ethical lines.
“There is nothing wrong with live broadcasting per se. Our media has freedom,” said Murkomen.
“The biggest problem is the idea that media becomes the centre of mobilisation for these protesters.”
Murkomen alleged that certain media outlets went beyond reporting, effectively influencing public sentiment and action.
“Some media houses work very hard and tell people ‘wengine wako Thika Highway.’ What do you tell people after that? They are mobilising people to participate,” he claimed.
In one of his most pointed remarks, Murkomen accused specific media outlets of directing protestors’ movements during the chaos, which led to at least 16 deaths and hundreds of injuries, according to Amnesty Kenya and KNCHR.
“Some media houses were directing protesters. You see, that is very irresponsible journalism,” the CS said.
Murkomen’s comments reflect a growing government backlash against the press, which has been providing continuous live coverage of recent protests across Nairobi and other major towns.
Murkomen’s accusations come just days after the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) issued a directive on June 25 ordering all TV and radio broadcasters to halt live coverage of the demonstrations. The CA cited legal violations and public safety concerns.
However, the High Court in Nairobi swiftly suspended the directive that same evening, following a petition by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). The matter is now pending a full hearing.
“Media freedom is not absolute, but neither is government power,” said Justice Chacha Mwita while issuing the court order.
