by Media Blackout Sparks Outrage as Rights Groups Decry Crackdown on Press Freedom
June 26, 2025
Nairobi, Kenya — The Kenyan government faced a storm of criticism Thursday from journalists and international human rights groups following a temporary media blackout imposed during the nationwide protests on June 25. The blackout, which halted live broadcasts across several major news networks, was later overturned by Nairobi’s High Court in an emergency ruling hailed as a victory for press freedom.
The Communications Authority of Kenya had ordered media houses to cease live transmission of the protests, citing national security concerns. Major networks, including NTV, Citizen TV, and KTN News, went off-air for several hours before the court intervened and restored their signals. The decision to suspend coverage drew swift backlash from media watchdogs and press freedom advocates.
One of the most vocal critics was the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), which labeled the move “a violation of constitutional rights and a dangerous precedent for censorship.” The organization urged the government to respect the role of an independent press, especially during national crises.
“Shutting down live coverage during mass demonstrations only fuels public mistrust and violates the core principles of democracy,” WAN-IFRA said in a statement.
The blackout coincided with widespread unrest across more than 26 counties, where peaceful protests spiraled into violent confrontations, looting, and arson. Businesses in Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret reported significant losses, with some storefronts burned and inventories destroyed.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the destruction of property and described the unrest as “terrorism disguised as dissent.” He warned that those caught looting—many of whom were recorded on CCTV—would face swift prosecution. His remarks, however, have sparked concern among civil society groups who fear the government may use the violence as justification for a wider crackdown on dissent.
The shutdown of media coverage during such a critical moment has reignited debate over the limits of state power and the fragility of press freedom in Kenya. Critics argue that live reporting plays a crucial role in documenting abuse, protecting protester rights, and holding authorities accountable.
As tensions remain high, journalists, human rights defenders, and opposition leaders continue to call for transparency, lawful policing, and the protection of constitutional rights. The battle for Kenya’s democratic space, they argue, extends far beyond the streets—and into the nation’s airwaves and courtrooms.
Kenyans Begin Cleanup After Deadly Protests Leave Trail of Destruction
June 26, 2025
Nairobi, Kenya — Streets across Nairobi and more than two dozen counties were strewn with debris Thursday morning, as residents and business owners began clearing the aftermath of one of the deadliest days of protest in recent Kenyan history. The demonstrations, which marked the one-year anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax uprising, spiraled into widespread unrest, looting, and clashes with police.
According to Amnesty International Kenya and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least 16 people were killed, all reportedly shot by security forces. More than 400 others were injured, including protesters, journalists, and law enforcement personnel.
In downtown Nairobi, traders were seen sweeping broken glass and salvaging stock from torched stalls. One shopkeeper in the city center estimated his losses at over $15,500, while another in Gikomba Market reported his entire stock of fabric reduced to ashes.
“We woke up to find our life’s work gone,” said one trader. “How can we be expected to survive when the government doesn’t listen and the police shoot our children?”
The violent turn of events followed peaceful rallies that quickly escalated into confrontations after police deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and live rounds. In several counties, demonstrations were infiltrated by looters who vandalized shops and set buildings ablaze. The destruction not only devastated livelihoods but also intensified calls for dialogue between the government and protesting youth.
On social media, images of burned-out storefronts and injured demonstrators trended under hashtags like #JusticeForOjwang and #Mandamano2025, referencing both the broader movement and the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, whose recent custodial death helped reignite national anger.
In response to the chaos, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki condemned the destruction, labeling some of the activity as “coordinated criminality.” He vowed arrests for those caught on CCTV looting or vandalizing property.
However, civil society groups pushed back, warning against blanket criminalization of demonstrators. “The government must listen,” said Irũngũ Houghton of Amnesty Kenya. “These protests reflect a deep societal frustration with injustice, corruption, and impunity.”
As clean-up efforts continue, traders and families affected by the violence are now seeking government compensation and guarantees of safety. Meanwhile, activists are calling for an independent investigation into the killings, the reinstatement of press freedoms, and a formal recognition of the grievances raised by Kenya’s youth.
Whether the state responds with reforms or further crackdowns remains to be seen. But on the streets of Nairobi, the dust is only just beginning to settle.
Waitaliano and Q Tam Drop Protest Anthem “Mandamano” Amid National Unrest
June 26, 2025
As Kenya reels from a new wave of youth-led protests and rising calls for justice, rising artists Waitaliano and Q Tam have released a timely and politically charged anthem titled “Mandamano.” The track, launched just a day before the June 25 demonstrations, has quickly captured the mood of the nation—becoming a rallying cry across social platforms and urban soundscapes.
Released under Black Market Records, “Mandamano” is a bold fusion of hip-hop and conscious street poetry, reflecting Kenya’s turbulent socio-political environment. The word Mandamano, derived from the Swahili for “demonstration,” is repurposed in the song to emphasize resistance, demand for justice, and the urgency of civic action.
With gritty verses and a haunting chorus, the song dives into themes of police brutality, government neglect, and youth disillusionment. Q Tam’s razor-sharp delivery complements Waitaliano’s emotive storytelling, painting vivid scenes of life in the streets where frustration simmers and hope refuses to die.
“Wanatushika kwa nguvu, lakini bado hatunyamazi.
Haki haitolewi—tunaitafuta kwa miguu barabarani.”
(They grab us with force, but we won’t be silenced.
Justice isn’t given—we seek it marching in the streets.)
The song’s audio was released on YouTube and major streaming platforms on June 24, 2025, just as tensions in the country reached a boiling point. Within hours, “Mandamano” was being shared across TikTok and Instagram reels, especially by Gen Z users who were on the front lines of the June 25 protests.
This isn’t the first time Kenyan artists have turned to music to confront state violence and social injustice. But “Mandamano” stands out for its raw immediacy—clearly influenced by real-time events, including the tragic death of activist blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody and the mass protests that followed.
In a recent interview, Waitaliano said the song was not just a track but “a voice for the voiceless.” Q Tam added, “Music is our weapon—it cuts through censorship, fear, and silence.”
The timing of the release, along with its unapologetic message, has made “Mandamano” an underground anthem of the movement, resonating far beyond the club scenes and radio charts.
Whether it becomes a defining soundtrack of this protest era or simply a powerful moment in Kenyan music history, one thing is clear: Waitaliano and Q Tam have sparked a conversation that cannot be ignored.
Casualties Mount as Human Rights Concerns Deepen in Wake of June 25 Protests
June 26, 2025
Nairobi, Kenya — A day after nationwide demonstrations rocked Kenya, conflicting reports on casualties have raised alarm among human rights groups and watchdog agencies, deepening concerns over the government’s handling of protests and its commitment to constitutional freedoms.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least 8 people were confirmed dead, with over 80 others seriously injured across the country during the June 25 protests. The Commission also noted that more than 400 individuals—including journalists, protesters, and police officers—were harmed in varying degrees, and approximately 60 people were arrested.
However, Amnesty International Kenya issued a parallel report contradicting the official government figures, asserting that the death toll had risen to 16, with at least five fatalities attributed directly to live ammunition fired by security forces. Amnesty further confirmed that over 400 people sustained injuries, and echoed the KNCHR’s figure of 60+ arrests nationwide.
“These numbers reflect a shocking disregard for the right to peaceful assembly,” said Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty Kenya. “The government has a constitutional obligation to protect, not punish, its citizens when they express dissent.”
Gruesome footage and eyewitness accounts circulated widely on social media, showing scenes of chaos, brutality, and bloodshed, particularly in Nairobi’s CBD, parts of Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Victims included students, medics, and freelance journalists, some of whom were reportedly assaulted while attempting to document the events.
Independent medical groups who volunteered during the protests also confirmed receiving dozens of patients with gunshot wounds, fractures, and tear gas injuries. One volunteer medic described the situation as a “war zone.”
The growing casualty figures have prompted widespread condemnation from local and international observers. Human Rights Watch and the United Nations Human Rights Office have both issued statements urging the Kenyan government to launch independent investigations and hold accountable any officers found to have used excessive force.
“This level of violence during civic protests is unacceptable and erodes the democratic principles Kenya is built on,” said a spokesperson from the UNHRO Office in Nairobi.
President William Ruto’s administration has yet to officially comment on the diverging reports, but Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki promised a “comprehensive review” of law enforcement actions during the protests.
In the meantime, civil society groups have vowed to continue pressuring the state for justice and reforms. Plans for legal action and further demonstrations are already taking shape, as Kenya once again finds itself at a critical crossroads between state authority and civil liberties.
Nationwide Youth-Led Protests Rock Kenya on Anniversary of 2024 Demonstrations
June 26, 2025
Nairobi, Kenya — Kenya witnessed a powerful wave of youth-led demonstrations on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, as thousands took to the streets across at least 23 counties to mark the one-year anniversary of the deadly anti-tax protests that shook the nation in 2024. The protests—centered in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Nyeri, and other urban centers—were sparked by lingering grievances over police brutality, corruption, and governance failures.
The demonstrations, which began peacefully in many areas, escalated into confrontations between protesters and security forces. In multiple counties, police responded with force—firing tear gas, rubber bullets, and in some instances, live ammunition. Protesters erected barricades, lit fires, and blocked major highways in protest of what they described as the government’s continued failure to address justice and police reform.
In the capital, heavy security was deployed around key government installations, including Parliament and State House, which were heavily barricaded. Riot police patrolled the streets of Nairobi’s CBD and parts of Westlands, Kamukunji, and Kibera, where youth activists rallied in defiance of an official ban on public assemblies.
Adding to the growing tension, the Communications Authority of Kenya issued a directive suspending live broadcast coverage of the protests by noon, citing “national security concerns.” Major media houses complied, though independent journalists and citizen media continued to stream real-time footage on social media platforms.
The protests come amid a renewed outcry for justice for victims of last year’s brutal crackdown, which left at least 30 people dead according to human rights watchdogs. This year, demonstrators carried placards bearing the names and faces of the deceased, chanting “Justice for June 25,” and demanding the prosecution of officers responsible for the killings.
“We are not criminals. We are citizens demanding justice. We will not forget what happened last year, and we will not be silenced,” said Lorna Atieno, a 24-year-old university student in Kisumu who joined the protest.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported fresh fatalities and injuries during Tuesday’s demonstrations, although official numbers were yet to be confirmed by press time. Amnesty International Kenya condemned the heavy-handed response, stating, “The use of excessive force against peaceful protesters is a blatant violation of fundamental rights and the Constitution.”
As the evening wore on, protests turned into candlelight vigils in parts of Nairobi and Eldoret, with songs, poetry, and speeches honoring the lives lost and calling for a renewed national conversation on justice, police accountability, and youth representation in governance.
President William Ruto, in a brief televised address, acknowledged the protests but warned against “anarchy and unlawful behavior,” reiterating the government’s commitment to maintaining order and security.
Observers now await whether the protests will spark a longer civil movement or lead to meaningful dialogue between the state and civil society. For many young Kenyans, June 25 is no longer just a date—it is a symbol of resistance, remembrance, and resilience.
Inside the Boomplay x Black Market Records Live Session: Artists Reveal Their True Selves
The recent Boomplay live session held at Black Market Records headquarters in Nairobi was not just about music—it was an open, unfiltered conversation that gave fans and viewers a rare peek into the real lives and stories behind some of Kenya’s most influential Gengetone and urban artists.
Unlike traditional showcases, the session’s main highlight was a raw roundtable-style discussion, where the artists got vulnerable about who they are beyond the stage, revealing untold stories, personal struggles, and unexpected sides of their journey.
🎙️ A Space for Real Talk
In an intimate setup surrounded by fans, media, and fellow creatives, the session featured Joefes, Mr. Kagame, DJ Moon, Unspoken Salaton, and Odi wa Muranga opening up in ways fans had never seen before.
🗣️ Joefes: More Than Just Punchlines
Known for his cheeky lyrics and streetwise swagger, Joefes shared that he’s also a dedicated mentor to emerging artists behind the scenes. He revealed that much of his humor stems from earlier hardships.
🎧 DJ Moon: The Quiet Architect
Often behind the decks, DJ Moon stepped forward to discuss the emotional pressure of producing for high-profile artists. He revealed that he started with the wish to become like the great gurus namely Martin Garrix and sort. His story inspired young youths in music tech.
🎤 Mr. Kagame: The Soul Behind the Voice
Mr. Kagame, from Rwanda, shared his deep personal losses, including the how his friend almost killed him for a minor disagreement. “Music became my way to relieve and celebrate life. What you hear is healing in real time.”
🧠 Unspoken Salaton: The Storyteller Unmasked
Unspoken got cerebral, diving into the spiritual side of lyricism, saying, “He started as a spoken word person.” He also spoke on how he was born in a state he didnt think would change but God came through.
🔥 Odi wa Muranga: From Meme to Movement
Odi revealed that the viral side of his career often overshadows the intentional art he creates. “Yes, I’m funny. But I’m also building culture. My music is coded for the streets and the future.”
🧩 What People Didn’t Know
From hidden anxieties to personal motivations, the artists peeled back layers that fans rarely get to see. The audience learned that:
-
Several artists struggle with mental health but find refuge in music.
-
Some have been ghostwriters or silent producers for major acts.
-
Others are deeply involved in community work and youth mentorship.
🌍 Why It Mattered
This wasn’t just another live session—it was a transformative cultural moment that fused artistry with authenticity. Fans didn’t just watch performances—they walked away with deeper respect for the human beings behind the music.
Black Market Records and Boomplay have promised more such artist-first experiences in the near future.
Conclusion:
By creating a space where musicians could be raw, honest, and fully themselves, the Boomplay x Black Market Records session reminded us all that music is only half the story—the rest is found in the lives, voices, and truths of the artists themselves.
Pulselive Kenya’s Top Music Picks for June 10: A Showcase of Rising Kenyan Talent
Kenya’s music scene continues to flourish with bold new sounds, fresh collaborations, and genre-defying talent. On June 10, Pulselive Kenya released its latest music picks, spotlighting three powerful new tracks that are already making waves across streaming platforms.
Here’s a breakdown of the standout selections:
🎵 “June 10th” by Muthaka
Genre: R&B / Soul
Mood: Reflective, emotive
Singer-songwriter Muthaka delivers a soulful tribute with “June 10th,” a track that blends vulnerability with vocal depth. Backed by minimalistic production, Muthaka’s lyrics evoke themes of memory, love, and emotional healing. The song’s stripped-down arrangement allows her expressive tone and lyrical storytelling to shine—an R&B gem that’s perfect for late-night introspection.
“It’s both a personal date and a universal mood,” fans say, noting how easily it resonates with anyone who’s ever marked a moment of heartbreak or growth.
🎶 “Gone” – Njerae ft. Preston Pablo
Genre: Afro-Indie Ballad
Mood: Melancholic yet hopeful
Kenyan rising star Njerae teams up with Canadian pop/R&B artist Preston Pablo in “Gone,” a bittersweet fusion of acoustic soul and Afro-indie energy. The cross-continental collaboration marries soft guitar loops with harmonized vocals, exploring themes of longing, misconnection, and moving on.
Njerae’s earthy delivery pairs beautifully with Pablo’s smoother pop stylings, creating a track that feels at once introspective and international. It’s a bold step forward for Kenyan indie pop.
🔥 “Crash Out” – Brandy Maina & Zaituni Wambui
Genre: Afrobeats / Benga-inspired fusion
Mood: High-energy, fierce, empowering
If there’s one track built to light up a dancefloor, it’s “Crash Out.” This electrifying collab between Brandy Maina and Zaituni Wambui bursts with raw feminine power and rhythmic complexity. Layered with pulsating beats, rapid-fire Swahili-English bars, and benga-infused hooks, the song is a sonic celebration of freedom and unapologetic energy.
Brandy’s signature Afropop edge meets Zaituni’s charismatic performance style in a track that demands repeat plays—and has quickly become a crowd favorite on TikTok and Nairobi club scenes alike.
🎧 Final Take
Pulselive Kenya’s June 10 playlist proves that Kenya’s music ecosystem is brimming with creativity and global ambition. Whether you’re into smooth soul, indie fusion, or high-octane Afrobeats, this week’s picks deliver on emotion, energy, and artistry.
All three tracks are now streaming on Spotify, Boomplay, and Apple Music. Add them to your playlist—you’ll be ahead of the curve.
U.S. Launches Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites in “Operation Midnight Hammer”
The United States has initiated a major military operation against Iran, launching coordinated airstrikes on three critical Iranian nuclear facilities—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—in a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East. The surprise offensive, dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer,” was executed using B-2 stealth bombers and Tomahawk cruise missiles, targeting what U.S. intelligence classified as active and imminent nuclear threats.
🎯 Targets Hit: Iran’s Core Nuclear Infrastructure
The strikes were carried out overnight and aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear development capabilities:
-
Fordo: An underground enrichment facility near Qom, believed to be heavily fortified.
-
Natanz: One of Iran’s most advanced uranium enrichment sites.
-
Isfahan: A critical center for uranium conversion and nuclear fuel research.
Initial reports suggest significant damage to infrastructure, though the extent of operational disruption remains under review. No U.S. casualties have been reported.
🛫 Execution & Military Precision
The Pentagon confirmed that the operation involved stealth B-2 Spirit bombers flying from bases in the continental U.S., with Tomahawk missiles launched from naval ships positioned in the Gulf. The strikes were timed to minimize civilian casualties and took place during early morning hours local time.
According to U.S. officials, Iran’s air defense systems were overwhelmed, and the targets were struck with “surgical precision.”
⚠️ Immediate Aftermath: Regional Shockwaves
The strikes have prompted widespread condemnation and concern across the Middle East:
-
Iran responded by launching a barrage of missiles targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, wounding at least 22 people.
-
Iranian state media called the attack an “act of war” and vowed further retaliation.
-
The Iranian Parliament convened an emergency session, with several lawmakers calling for the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could choke off a fifth of global oil exports.
In the U.S., President Biden justified the operation as a “necessary pre-emptive action” to halt what he described as “clear and imminent nuclear threats” from the Islamic Republic.
🌍 Global Reactions
The global community remains on edge:
-
Israel expressed full support for the operation, stating it had “no prior involvement but shared intelligence.”
-
The European Union and United Nations have called for restraint and an immediate de-escalation.
-
Russia and China have condemned the strikes, labeling them unilateral and destabilizing.
Oil markets responded swiftly, with Brent crude jumping over 8% amid fears of regional war and shipping disruptions in the Persian Gulf.
🕊️ What Comes Next?
Diplomatic analysts warn of a potential spiral into regional war, especially if Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz or activates allied militant networks in Lebanon, Syria, or Yemen.
Meanwhile, U.S. and allied forces in the region are on high alert, and American embassies across the Middle East have heightened security measures.
“Operation Midnight Hammer” may mark the most direct confrontation between the U.S. and Iran in decades, with both immediate and long-term consequences for global stability, energy markets, and nuclear non-proliferation diplomacy. The world watches anxiously for what comes next.
Tesla Launches Long-Awaited Robotaxi Service in Austin
After years of anticipation and bold promises from Elon Musk, Tesla has officially launched its autonomous Robotaxi service, beginning a controlled rollout in Austin, Texas. This move marks a significant milestone in the company’s self-driving journey and places it in direct competition with other autonomous vehicle (AV) companies like Waymo and Cruise.
🚗 A New Era Begins: Tesla’s Robotaxis Hit the Road
The pilot, which began on June 22, is currently invite-only, with a small fleet of 10–20 Tesla Model Y vehicles operating within a geofenced area of South Austin. These vehicles are fully autonomous, but not without supervision—a “Tesla Safety Monitor” rides in the front passenger seat to intervene if necessary, though not to drive the car.
Users selected for the pilot pay a flat rate of $4.20 per ride, regardless of distance. Rides operate from 6 a.m. to midnight and are restricted to fair weather conditions, steering clear of sensitive areas like airports.
🧠 How It Works
Tesla’s Robotaxi system relies on its camera-based vision system, rather than LiDAR, and may use remote human oversight (teleoperation) in complex situations. While there’s no driver, Tesla is treading cautiously, emphasizing safety as its top priority.
🔐 Regulatory Scrutiny and Political Pushback
Despite the excitement, the rollout hasn’t gone unnoticed by regulators. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has requested Tesla provide more safety data, and Texas legislators have called for a delay in deployment until tougher AV regulations come into force in September.
These upcoming laws would require Tesla and other AV providers to file safety reports, undergo emergency protocol assessments, and obtain formal DMV approvals.
📈 Implications for the Future
Tesla’s move into autonomous ride-hailing represents a major technological and commercial gamble—and a possible disruption to both the ride-sharing and automobile markets. Analysts estimate that if the pilot proves successful, Tesla could expand to 25 U.S. cities within a year. Tech analyst Dan Ives suggested this expansion could dramatically boost Tesla’s valuation.
Musk, in typical style, hailed the launch on social media as the “culmination of a decade of hard work,” signaling Tesla’s confidence in its autonomous systems.
🔮 What’s Next?
Although these first Robotaxis are modified Model Y units with safety monitors, Tesla’s steering wheel–free Cybercab—designed specifically for autonomous operation—is slated to enter production in 2026.
For now, all eyes are on Austin. If Tesla can demonstrate consistent safety and customer satisfaction, the long-dreamed future of robot-driven taxis may finally be here.
Kenyan YouTuber Sparks Buzz with Cash-Challenge Videos
A rising digital star in Kenya’s content scene is gaining traction on the entertainment site Ghafla for uploading large-scale challenge videos that award cash prizes—earning comparisons to global YouTuber MrBeast. businesstoday.co.ke+9nation.africa+9reddit.com+9kisiifm.co.ke
🎬 Content Style & Format
-
The creator organizes high-stakes challenges—pitting participants in creative, often physical or mental tasks—with substantial cash rewards at stake.
-
These energizing, visually dynamic videos mimic the high production value and viral potential of MrBeast’s format.
📈 Digital Impact & Community Reaction
-
Audiences on Ghafla and other platforms are buzzing about the novelty, praising how these videos are raising the bar in Kenya’s digital content and introducing a fresh, thrilling entertainment format.
-
There’s a growing sense of pride—many see it as a sign that Kenyan creators can build innovative, large-scale content that resonates with local audiences and competes globally.
🧭 Challenges & Opportunities
-
While this content is electrifying, it requires significant funding and logistical coordination, raising questions about its long-term sustainability.
-
However, engaging formats of this kind could attract brand sponsors, unlock new monetization avenues, and set a new standard for Kenyan YouTubers.
🌱 The Bigger Picture for Kenyan Digital Media
-
The Kenyan online video landscape has often skewed toward comedy skits, vlogs, or lifestyle content, with few investing in heavier production or bold formats.
-
This creator’s rising popularity may signal a shift—more ambitious, creative, and gameplay-style videos might soon emerge from Kenyan talent.
What This Means Moving Forward
| Aspect | Implication |
|---|---|
| Innovation | Time-limited cash challenges are a new format in Kenya, offering viral potential. |
| Monetization | With enough views and sponsors, such videos could become financially viable. |
| Leadership | This creator is blazing a trail—others may follow suit, leading to a diversified local YouTube ecosystem. |
Bottom line:
This so-called “Mr. Beast of Kenya” is pushing creative boundaries, offering high-energy, cash‑reward content that stands out in the Kenyan digital space. While its future hinges on funding and audience support, it’s a bold sign that Kenyan creators are ready to think big and go global.
Curious to see which creators are next in line—or how the format evolves? Let’s keep watching this space!
