Kenyans could face media restrictions and internet blackouts during the 2027 elections if recent trends continue, a new report by the Thomson Reuters Foundation has warned.
The report says the measures could limit access to information, disrupt journalism and create an environment where misinformation spreads more easily during the 2027 elections, a politically sensitive period.
The report, titled Weaponising the Law: Threats to Media Freedom in Kenya, examines legal and technological threats facing journalists and media houses in the country.
It warns that restrictions on communication channels during politically charged periods could leave citizens vulnerable to misinformation while undermining transparency during elections.
According to the report, Kenya had largely avoided interfering with internet access, including during the 2022 General Election.
However, the situation changed during the 2024 anti-government protests when internet disruptions were reported, attracting criticism from civil society organisations and digital rights groups.
The foundation says the trend raises concerns as the country steadily moves toward another election cycle, with millions of Kenyans expected to rely on online platforms for news, political discussions and election updates.
“Looking forward, a third participant raised the concern that internet and media shutdowns may become common in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections,” the report noted.
Media Freedom at Risk
The report identifies internet shutdowns and media restrictions as among the most significant technology-related threats facing the media industry.
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It says disruptions can take several forms, including complete internet shutdowns, blocking access to websites and applications, or slowing internet speeds to limit communication.
The Thompson Foundation warns that such actions can severely affect news gathering and dissemination.
Journalists may struggle to file stories, access sources, verify information or provide live coverage of unfolding events.
This, the report says, can weaken the public’s ability to get accurate, timely information when it is needed most.
The study also highlights growing concern over misinformation and disinformation.
It further notes that 40 per cent of survey respondents identified misinformation and disinformation among the biggest threats facing journalism.
The Thomson Reuters Foundation said internet disruptions create information gaps that are often filled by rumours and false information.
Fears Grow Ahead of 2027 Election
The report is based on desk research, surveys and focus group discussions involving journalists, editors, media managers, legal experts and media freedom organisations.
It found that 42 per cent of media actors surveyed had faced legal threats because of their work, including litigation, arrest and the shutting down of online platforms.
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The study identifies six major threats facing media freedom in Kenya.
They include abuse of court processes, regressive legislation, weak implementation of media laws, technology-facilitated harms, safety concerns facing journalists and challenges affecting the sustainability of the media industry.
“Repeated internet and media shutdowns send the disturbing message to journalists that coverage of politically sensitive events may be obstructed, discouraging them from planning or investing in live reporting,” the report stated.
Under technology-facilitated harms, the report highlights internet shutdowns, media restrictions and surveillance as growing concerns for journalists and media houses.
It says such actions interfere with news gathering, compromise confidential sources and restrict access to information, particularly during periods of political unrest.
The report also points to events surrounding protests in June 2025.
It notes that despite a court order barring restrictions on internet access ahead of demonstrations marking one year since the 2024 Finance Bill protests, the Communications Authority directed media houses to stop live coverage of the protests.
The High Court later suspended and eventually quashed the directive, ruling that it was unconstitutional.
As the country moves closer to the 2027 elections, the foundation recommends that media freedom organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders urgently explore legal and advocacy measures to address the risk of internet shutdowns.
It also calls for scrutiny of the role telecommunications companies may play in facilitating unlawful internet restrictions.
The report further recommends engagement with telecommunications firms ahead of the election to secure commitments that would protect freedom of expression and ensure continued public access to information.
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