The Standard Group PLC, a leading multi-media house in Kenya, has strongly condemned an incident where a group of youths protested outside its premises in Nairobi. The group, claiming to represent President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration, hurled insults and attempted to intimidate staff. The media company described the action as an attack on media freedom, democracy, and legitimate business. The incident has raised concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Kenya.
According to The Standard Group PLC, the protest was part of a sustained campaign against the company, its television station KTN, and other editorial platforms. The group allegedly targeted the media house over its critical coverage of the government. The company's Chief Executive Officer, Chaacha Mwita, stated that the protest was unwarranted and condemned it in the strongest terms. The media house emphasized that its journalism is guided by professionalism, the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism, and the public interest.
The Standard Group PLC cited the Constitution, specifically Articles 33 and 34, which guarantee freedom of expression and freedom of the media. The company warned that no group should be allowed to trample on these freedoms. It also rejected claims that Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi and former President Uhuru Kenyatta were behind its editorial decisions. The media house described those involved in the protest as "paid goons" who were ready to harm journalists and other staff members.
The media house commended the National Police Service for preventing the protesters from entering its compound. The company stated that the police response was consistent with what Kenyans expect from a professional and independent police service. The Standard Group PLC urged those with complaints against its reporting to use lawful channels rather than laying siege to its premises. The incident has raised concerns about the operating environment for independent media in Kenya.
The confrontation comes amid heightened tensions between sections of the political establishment and media organisations over critical reporting and coverage of political developments ahead of the 2027 General Election. The Standard Group PLC stated that the incident would not deter it from carrying out its journalistic mandate. The company pledged to continue scrutinising those in positions of power and reporting on matters it considers to be in the public interest.
The media organisation described the protest as an attack on the Constitution, stating that threatening journalists, intimidating media houses, and punishing independent voices is not legitimate protest. The Standard Group PLC called on Kenyans to respect the Constitution and the role of the media in a democratic society. The company emphasised that it will keep exposing what the powerful would rather hide and will not relent in its duty to inform the public.
The Standard Group PLC's statement comes as concerns over the safety of journalists and the operating environment for independent media continue to feature prominently in Kenya's public discourse. The company has urged Kenyans to stand with it in the pursuit of credible journalism. The incident has sparked a renewed debate about the importance of a free and independent media in Kenya's democracy.
Key points
- The Standard Group PLC condemns the protest as an attack on media freedom and democracy.
- The media house cites the Constitution, specifically Articles 33 and 34, which guarantee freedom of expression and freedom of the media.
- The incident raises concerns about the safety of journalists and the operating environment for independent media in Kenya.
