Popular messaging platform Telegram has been restricted in Kenya as part of what is perceived to be wider efforts to restrict the live coverage of the June 25 anniversary protests.

According to NetBlocks, a global internet observatory that monitors cybersecurity and digital rights, access to Telegram in Kenya dropped sharply on Wednesday afternoon, raising concerns over digital freedoms and the state’s response to anticipated demonstrations.

“Live metrics show restrictions to messaging platform Telegram in #Kenya are now in effect; the measure comes as authorities issue a ban on live media coverage of the June 25 anniversary protests,” NetBlocks reported on its X (formerly Twitter) platform.

By 4:00 pm on Wednesday, NetBlocks indicated that the platform’s reachability had dropped to just one percent, effectively rendering it inaccessible to the majority of users across the country.

The move appears to be a pre-emptive measure by authorities to stifle coordination of the planned protests and control the narrative around what is expected to be a significant moment of public dissent. 

The move comes hours after a  Communication Authority directive to halt live coverage of protests earlier.