Critical Disapproval from Standard Group over KTN's Transmission Suspension
The Standard Group PLC isn't mincing words about the CA's (Communications Authority of Kenya) arbitrary closure of its television station, KTN. This blow was dealt following orders issued by the CA, a move the Group believes disregards the ballpark of Article 34 of the Constitution, which guarantees media freedom and forbids state meddling in broadcasting.
In a fiery statement released Tuesday, the Group voiced its disapproval of the sudden signal disruption by signal distributors without prior notice or legal cause. The decision came lickety-split after a popular social media directive demanded broadcasters halt live coverage of Gen Z-led demonstrations commemorating the anniversary of last year's anti-tax protests.
"By this unlawful act, the CA has breached the limits set in place for protection of journalistic independence and citizens' right to receive vital information during a crucial national phase," the statement read in part.
The Group further highlighted a recent High Court verdict that confirmed the Media Council of Kenya, not the CA, has administrative oversight of broadcast content. The organization accused the Council of overstepping its bounds, suggesting that appropriate mechanisms for addressing media conduct concerns already exist and that the CA had deliberately bypassed these processes.
At the time of the shutdown, KTN was airing live footage of protests, an event the Group identified as a critical expression of civil rights and a matter of public interest.
"This clampdown on press freedom and the suppression of valuable information undermines the essence of our democratic society," the Group added.
There's also a whisper in the wind about a possible raid on their Mombasa Road offices, allegedly for defying the CA's orders. The Group has considered this threat seriously, remembering a similar State-orchestrated incident in 2006 involving masked agents.
While preparing to exploit every legal and regulatory avenue to reestablish KTN's broadcast signal, the Group pleaded with the government to adhere to the rule of law and urged the CA to scrap its "illegal" directive immediately.
"As always, KTN remains steadfast in maintaining honest, autonomous, and honest journalism," the statement concluded, inviting audiences to continue watching KTN via its YouTube and social media channels.
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"In the face of adversity, KTN will not falter from its commitment to fearless, independent, and accountable journalism," the statement ultimately declared.
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- The controversy surrounding KTN's closure by the Communications Authority of Kenya extends beyond just media freedom, as a new bill proposes to ban the President from appointing political allies to state corporations.
- In a turning point for politics, the Cabinet has approved a bill that aims to prevent the President from appointing political allies to state corporations, signaling a shift in policy-and-legislation.
- Amidst the state of general-news, a fierce debate ensued regarding the role of politics in appointments to state corporations, with KTN's dispute being just one instance highlighting the importance of maintaining independent journalism in sports, business, entertainment, and other sectors.
