Controversial Editorial by The Standard
In its Sunday, June 29 edition, The Standard criticized Mugonyi for banning media houses from broadcasting the June 25 protests live. The publication dedicated prominent space to condemn the directive as a threat to press freedom in Kenya.
Itumbi Responds: ‘Country Over Cameras’
Reacting via social media, Itumbi defended Mugonyi’s decision, stating that the CA boss prioritized national stability over optics.
“When others chased chaos for clout, David Mugonyi chose country over cameras… That’s not censorship. It is courage. No Kenya, no newsroom. No country, no press freedom,” said Itumbi.
Criticism of Media Practices
Itumbi accused some media houses of acting like “unregistered political parties,” asserting that during such tense times, it was appropriate to regulate what content went live to avoid inciting unrest.
“Please, ndugu Mugonyi, if such a moment presents again, do not shy from choosing Kenya. Every time. All the time. This was patriotism under pressure,” he wrote.
Legal Pushback and Court Order
Following public outrage and a petition by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the High Court in Nairobi issued a conservatory order lifting the CA’s ban. Justice Chacha Mwita directed the CA to restore all signals it had previously disrupted.
The case will be mentioned again in court on July 2, 2025.
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