The bold cannot be silenced — that was the resounding message from Kenyans as they rallied behind Standard Group following the government’s decision to cancel its media contract with the company.  

In a show of unwavering support, netizens praised the media house for its fearless reporting, urging it to remain steadfast in delivering bold and impactful journalism. 

Many described Standard Group as a pillar of truth in Kenya’s media landscape.

“And the Standard maintained its standards,” said X user @WanderiBrianM97. Another user, @johnMugo_mw, added: “I love what you all are doing. Good work. May you brave through this storm.”

Journalist Kalekye Njuguna criticised Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura and Professor Edward Kisiangani, accusing them of turning against a media house that once provided them a platform.

“I remember watching Professor Kisiangani on TV political talk shows years ago. He was a vocal critic of the government then and a constant presence in KTN. He has now turned around and is literally biting the hand that fed him and was a springboard to his current job,” said Njuguna.

She further condemned the government’s decision as an attack on press freedom.

“Media houses depend on advertising to operate and expand. Withdrawing ads based on political leanings is more than just petty — it is a direct attack on press freedom. The government is out to control messaging by squeezing out critical voices. A free press is not supposed to be a puppet of power,” she noted.

Echoing similar remarks, @__Munguti, criticised the government for neglecting its duties while focusing on ‘punishing’ the media for speaking out.  

“Ah yes, the classic ‘punish the media for doing its job’ move — because accountability is such an inconvenience! Instead of fixing the issues being reported, the solution is to cancel contracts and hope the truth disappears. But guess what? Kenyans see through the games. Cutting ads won’t silence The Standard — it only proves why independent journalism is more important than ever. If anything, this will only make people support them more,” said Munguti.  

Despite the setback, Kenyans pledged to support Standard Group by purchasing its publications and advertising with the company.

Lawyer @NjiruAdv urged citizens to show solidarity.

“Kenyans, let’s support The Standard by buying all their daily papers and advertising with them. Let’s show Ruto that Kenyans own The Standard and not the government,” noted Njiru.

Another user, @AnuarSaddat, condemned the government’s actions as immature, stating: “Very juvenile behaviour.”

“ We have people in government behaving like children, throwing tantrums because the free media is not kowtowing to them.”

The wave of support underscores one message — bold journalism must prevail, no matter the cost.

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