Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma is facing widespread criticism following his call to ban the BBC from operating in Kenya over its damning documentary titled #BloodParliament. The film investigates the fatal shootings of anti-tax protesters by security forces during the June 25, 2024, invasion of Kenya’s Parliament.
Kaluma, known for his outspoken and often controversial views, sparked outrage after he posted on X (formerly Twitter) accusing the BBC of publishing a “twisted and inciteful” documentary. He compared the BBC’s reporting to media incitement during the Rwandan Genocide and demanded that its license be revoked.
“BAN @BBCAfrica IN KENYA. The role played by the media in any democracy is too important to be discharged irresponsibly,” Kaluma posted. He further accused the BBC of aiming to destabilize Kenya with the documentary, claiming it was biased and reckless.
The public reaction was swift and fierce. Kenyans from all walks of life, including legal experts and ordinary citizens, condemned Kaluma’s remarks as an attack on press freedom. Lawyer Willis Otieno slammed the MP for resorting to censorship instead of advocating for justice and accountability.
Many X users emphasized that the BBC was simply reporting the truth, highlighting the government’s failure to hold anyone accountable for the killings. “You cannot censor history. You cannot bury justice,” wrote one user, echoing the mood of a public tired of official impunity.
Faced with mounting pressure, Kaluma deleted the controversial post. However, he reignited the debate the following day by drawing a comparison to the 2021 Capitol Hill attack in the U.S., criticizing the BBC for allegedly applying double standards.
The controversy has escalated as Kenyan authorities moved to block the Nairobi screening of the documentary at Unseen Cinema. A BBC spokesperson expressed disappointment, reaffirming the film’s availability on YouTube.
As #BloodParliament continues to trend, Kaluma’s remarks have added fuel to a growing national debate on media freedom, accountability, and the right to protest in Kenya.
