Standard group
The Standard Group has issued a response to President William Ruto following his criticism of the Standard newspaper.
In a statement, the Mombasa Road-based media group said it could not ignore Ruto’s post on X, where he accused the company of running ‘extortionist propaganda’ against his administration
“The Standard Group PLC finds it impossible to ignore the post published by President William Ruto on X, in which he directly referenced the Group.
“Ordinarily, we would not want to respond to statements attributed to the Presidency as we hold it in high regard. However, because the post singled out The Standard, it is important to address the issues raised,” the statement read in part.
The Standard Group defended its editorial stance, insisting that its journalism is guided by facts, public interest and professional ethics rather than political interests.
“The Standard stands for bold, responsible and accountable journalism. We tell the facts as they are, even when they are uncomfortable for those in positions of authority. When we err, it is our policy to correct the record promptly.
“We uphold the right of reply, and we operate under the Constitution, the law, the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism, and the oversight of recognised regulatory bodies”, the media group stated.
The media company also underscored the role of the media in a democratic society, saying journalists have a duty to scrutinise those in power and hold leaders accountable for their actions.
Standard Group further rejected any suggestion that it takes instructions from politicians or public officials.
“The Standard Group PLC does not take instructions from any individual or office. Our independence is the foundation of our credibility and our service to the public,” the statement added.
Further, the media group turned Ruto’s accusation of blackmail back on the government, claiming that state agencies had withheld KSh1.2 billion owed to the company.
“The President mentioned ‘blackmail’ in his post. We pose: What greater form of blackmail is there than a government withholding KSh1.2 billion that it owes us, with the apparent desire of frustrating our operations? Blackmail? We are victims of blackmail, not perpetrators,” Standard Group remarked.
Earlier, President Ruto called out KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, accusing the Standard Media Group of running negative coverage against his administration.
Ruto claimed that the Standard newspaper headlines against his administration have ulterior motives.
The Head of State noted that the publication’s continued criticism of his administration would not influence government decisions.
Ruto alleged that the negative headlines were aimed at advancing personal interests, insisting that he would not bow to what he termed as blackmail.
“Gideon Moi, your Standard Media’s five days a week extortionist propaganda headlines on me and my administration’s transformative track record will get you nothing and nowhere.
“Blackmail to yield to your greed? Never. Kenya belongs to all Kenyans, not you alone. Try eight days a week. Do your worst,” the President stated.
