CA has announced the suspension of World Evangelism TV and Times TV with immediate effect, following the Shakahola mystery. This move comes after an extensive review of the content aired by these two stations between January and April 2023, which revealed violations of broadcasting standards requirements and license conditions.
Of particular concern was that the stations did air inappropriate content on exorcism during the watershed period, as well as flouting of multiple other broadcasting license conditions. The Authority has directed the broadcast signal distributor, Pan African Network Group (PANG) Limited, to cease carrying the two stations on its platform until further notice.
“The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has suspended with immediate effect any further broadcasting by the World Evangelism TV (New Life Communications Ltd) and Times TV (Good News Media Kenya Ltd),” read the presser in part.
These stations are associated with televangelists Ezekiel Odero and Paul Mackenzie, who are currently under investigation for their alleged role in the Shakaloha tragedy in Kilifi County. The tragedy has claimed over 100 lives, and many questions remain unanswered about the circumstances surrounding the deaths and the aftermath.
The CA’s director, Ezra Chiloba, has also announced the installation of mobile phone spying gadgets after receiving the nod of the Supreme Court. The
The Apex Court authorized the communications regulator to implement the Device Management System (DMS), which telecommunication companies fear will provide the government with a way to monitor their subscribers’ activities.
The installation of these mobile phone spying gadgets highlights the growing trend of surveillance technologies being used by governments and other entities to monitor individuals. While surveillance technologies can have their benefits, their use raises important questions about potential impacts on privacy and human rights
As we grapple with these complex issues, it is important to keep in mind the role of technology in shaping our society and to consider the implications of its use on humanity. The suspension of the two TV stations and the installation of the mobile phone spying gadgets are just two examples of how technology is intersecting with broader social and political issues, and we must continue to engage in critical discussions about these developments.
