The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), an umbrella body comprising broadcasters in Uganda yesterday issued a powerful statement condemning a directive from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) that ordered Kenyan television and radio stations to stop live coverage of ongoing demonstrations.

“We respectfully urge the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) and the government of the Republic of Kenya to uphold the principles enshrined in their own Constitution especially Articles 33 and 34 which protect freedom of express and indepedence of the media,” the statement read in part.

In a show of solidarity, NAB reaffirmed its support for Kenyan broadcasters, advocating for a region where media can operate freely and serve the public interest.

Yet while NAB’s statement about media attacks in Kenya is commendable, it is akin to trying to remove a speck in your neighbour’s eye while you have a log in yours.

For the past three months NAB has kept quiet about the ban of journalists from NBS TV, NTV and Daily Monitor on covering events where President Museveni is the guest of honour. The ban started after the chaotic Kawempe North elections where a number of journalists were roughed up by security personnel.

A member of NAB who prefered anonymity said he had expected NAB to issue a statement pointing out that it is wrong to block journalists from covering state events. Instead, like we reported recently, some of its leaders have been quietly lobbying to meet the president and have the decision rescinded.