President William Ruto has launched a strong attack on The Standard Media Group, accusing the media house of engaging in what he termed “extortionist propaganda” and attempting to blackmail his administration through its headlines.
In a statement shared on social media on Wednesday June 24, the President dismissed The Standard’s critical coverage of his government, insisting that such reporting would not influence his administration’s agenda or decision-making.
The Head of State directly addressed KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, whose family is associated with the ownership media house.
“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.
Ruto maintained that his government remains focused on delivering its development agenda, saying it will not be distracted by media criticism.
The Mombasa-road based media house has stepped up scrutiny of the government in recent months, publishing a series of critical reports on public expenditure, taxation, governance and alleged corruption involving state officials.
Its latest coverage has focused on promises made by the Head of State, maintaining a sustained line of questioning on the administration’s performance.
In the past few days, KTN has been airing an exposé dubbed “The Gallery of Ruto Lies”, highlighting unfulfilled pledges and stalled development projects under President William Ruto’s administration.
The report featured instances where long-stalled infrastructure such as the Nithi Bridge contractor week, the Mau Summit road, and various roads in the Gusii region, were repeatedly promised or officially relaunched without actual completion.
