Standard Group Speaks After Editor Escapes Alleged Abduction Attempt
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Four armed men travelling in a Toyota Probox reportedly attempted to abduct Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich in Nakuru early Saturday June 27, 2026, according to a statement by the media house.
The Standard Group said the incident happened days after President William Ruto criticised the media organisation’s coverage.
“Four armed men in a Toyota Probox attempt to abduct Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich in Nakuru early Saturday, days after President Ruto criticised the media house’s news coverage,” Standard Group stated.
Standard did not immediately reveal further details about the identities of the alleged attackers or whether police had made any arrests in connection with the incident.
The reported attempted abduction comes at a time when the Standard Media Group has been involved in a public dispute with the government following criticism from President William Ruto over its reporting.
Standard Group and Government Clash Over Coverage
The latest incident follows a heated exchange between President Ruto and the Standard Group, with the Head of State accusing the media house of publishing what he described as hostile coverage against his administration.
President Ruto recently criticized the publication’s headlines, accusing the media outlet of running “extortionist propaganda” against his government.
The Standard Group rejected the allegations and defended its role as an independent media organization, saying its responsibility was to inform the public and hold leaders accountable.
“We take great exception to the President’s characterization of our journalism,” Standard Group CEO Chacha Mwita said in a past press release.
The dispute has also involved accusations over financial challenges facing the media house.
The Standard Group claimed that outstanding government debts had affected its operations.
Also Read:Standard Group Journalists Blocked from Covering Ruto’s Event
Press freedom concerns deepen
With the latest attempt on Kiprotich’s life, media players have become even more concerned about the safety of the reporters working in a highly charged atmosphere.
Previously, the Kenya Editors Guild expressed concern over the obstruction of Standard Group reporters from covering a presidential function, considering it a violation of the principle of independent journalism.
The Standard Group is determined to keep writing stories of public interest despite opposition from political figures.
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Journalist Denish Ochieng accuses Standard Group staff of assaulting him after he demanded Ksh 217,786 unpaid dues since 2024. PHOTO/ Denish Ochieng FB.
