War of Words Escalates as The Standard Fires Back at Ruto

The Standard Group PLC has issued a statement defending its media freedom and independence after remarks made by President William Ruto on X, in which he directly referenced the media house.

In the statement released on June 24 2026, the media house said it felt compelled to respond because the President had singled out The Standard in his post.

“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,” the statement read.

While acknowledging the office of the Presidency, the company expressed concern over what it described as a characterization of its journalism that undermined the principles guiding its work.

Standard’s Defence

The Standard said it practices journalism guided by facts, public interest and professional ethics.

The company maintained that it operates within the Constitution, the law, the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism and under the oversight of recognized regulatory bodies.

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The media house also reiterated the role of the press in a democratic society, stating that journalism serves as a watchdog by scrutinizing those in positions of authority and informing the public.

It added that it would continue reporting on matters of public interest, including issues related to governance and leadership.

Ruto’s Remarks

The company further emphasized that it does not take instructions from any individual or office, saying its independence is central to its credibility and service to the public.

The statement noted that while media organizations may sometimes make mistakes, their policy is to correct errors promptly and uphold the right of reply.

The Standard also referenced previous remarks by President Ruto during a Safari Rally event in Naivasha, where he publicly affirmed the importance of media freedom and the right of journalists to criticize government actions.

The media house said it expects that commitment to continue being upheld.

Ksh 1.2.Million Debt

Additionally, the company raised concerns over what it described as outstanding government debt amounting to Ksh1.2 billion owed to the media house.

“Lastly, 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,” read part of the statement.

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The company argued that the delayed payments have affected its operations and the livelihoods of its employees.

The Standard concluded by reaffirming its commitment to informing the public, scrutinizing leadership and upholding the constitutional principles that protect press freedom and access to information.

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Statement by The Standard
PHOTO/Standard