Structural changes in Kenya's broadcasting system: A manifesta tion of presidential authoritarianism

Abstract

Between December 1988 and March 1990, the government of Kenya restructured its broadcasting system. Examination of government documents and press reports viewed from the perspective of literature on authoritarian politics in Africa indicates that the structural changes were part of a strategy intended to enhance the image and authority of President Moi, breath new life into the ruling party and attract foreign investors. The strategy did attract foreign aid and investment in the media and did give the president a more efficient propaganda tool and tighter control over the state's broadcasting system. But, the aid increased the nation's external debt; the regime's propaganda alienated the public, and the second TV channel served to encourage open debate and multi-party politics which undermined the president's authority.