With criticism mounting against Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) Chair David Mugonyi over the suspension of live media broadcasts during the June 28 Gen Z protest commemorations, digital strategist Dennis Itumbi has stepped in to defend the controversial decision.

In a statement shared on Sunday, June 29, Itumbi lauded Mugonyi’s actions as a display of decisive leadership aimed at safeguarding national stability.

He argued that the move to halt live coverage should not be viewed as censorship but rather as a necessary step to prevent escalation during a volatile moment.

“When others pursued clout through chaos, Mugonyi chose to prioritise country over cameras,” Itumbi stated. “At a time when social media noise dominated, he subscribed to stability and leadership.”

Itumbi maintained that Mugonyi acted under pressure and in the interest of peace, even if the decision drew immediate backlash. He suggested that history would ultimately vindicate the CA boss, even if public opinion remained divided for now.

“Don’t expect praise today,” Itumbi wrote, “but one day, Kenya will look back and recognize your bold move.”

He also took aim at sections of the media, accusing some outlets of abandoning journalistic principles and behaving like partisan entities.

“In moments of national crisis, defending the country must come before liberties that risk intensifying unrest,” he added, pointing to examples in other nations where similar media restrictions were enforced in the name of security.

Itumbi encouraged Mugonyi to stand firm should similar situations arise in the future, describing his actions as an example of “patriotism under pressure.”

His comments come days after the CA ordered a halt to live coverage of protests by several major TV and radio stations that continued airing the Gen Z demonstrations despite official warnings.

The blackout sparked an outcry from civil society groups, media watchdogs, and sections of the public, who accused the government of undermining press freedom.