Thursday, June 25,
2026 - President William Ruto has intensified his feud with KANU Chairman,
Gideon Moi, this time targeting the unpaid salaries of employees at the Moi-owned
Standard Group.
Taking to X on Thursday, June 25th, the Head of
State accused Moi of neglecting staff welfare despite his vast personal wealth.
“Bro, the billionaire you are; hiding behind ‘debts’;
forcing many months’ unpaid labour slaving to defend your Standard headlines
extortion gangsterism driven by greed; is heartless to loyal workers, insult to
journalism and betrayal to free media that Standard once belonged,” Ruto
declared.
The remarks follow a sharp rejoinder from the Mombasa Road
based media house, which on Wednesday defended its editorial independence after
Ruto accused the Standard Group of blackmail.
CEO Chacha Mwita dismissed the President’s claims, saying
his language demeaned the office he holds.
“We take great exception to the President’s characterisation
of our journalism. The post, which was condescending, attacked the very
foundation of our journalism using language that falls short of the tone
expected from the highest office in the land,” Mwita said.
Mwita further argued that the company was itself a victim of
financial pressure, citing the Ksh 1.2 billion allegedly owed by the Government.
“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,”
he added.
The CEO underscored the plight of Standard Group employees,
urging the Government to back its rhetoric with tangible support.
“The Standard employs Kenyans who work hard and deserve the
opportunity to earn from their labour.”
“Their livelihoods matter. Indeed, to use your words again,
‘Kenya belongs to all Kenyans,’ Mr. President.
“The true test is to show that aspiration through action,
not merely words,” Mwita concluded.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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