Standard Raises Alarm Over Threat to Attack Offices

Standard Raises Alarm Over Threat to Attack Offices

The Standard Media Group has raised security concerns over a planned protest at its offices along Mombasa Road, Nairobi, after a youth group announced plans to mobilise thousands of people for a demonstration.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 29, the media organisation said the group, identified as Bunge la Mwananchi, had announced plans to mobilise more than 5,000 people for a protest at the Standard Group headquarters on Friday, October 2.

The planned demonstration follows criticism of the media house’s coverage of the government and President William Ruto.

According to the Standard Group, a video circulating on social media showed members of the group accusing the media organisation of repeatedly publishing reports that they consider critical of the President and his administration.

The media house said it had reported the matter to South B Police Station and informed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) office in Makadara.

The Standard said the security measures were precautionary and aimed at protecting its employees, visitors and property amid concerns surrounding the planned protest.

Despite the security concerns, the media organisation said it would continue carrying out its journalistic duties and reporting on matters of public interest.

“The Standard Group promises to remain firm and continue to hold accountable leaders in the country.”

The media house did not indicate that an attack had already taken place, but said the announced mobilisation had prompted it to alert law enforcement agencies and strengthen security around its premises.

Standard Under Political Scrutiny

The latest concerns come as the Standard Media Group faces increased scrutiny from political leaders over some of its recent reporting.

President William Ruto has previously criticised the media organisation over its coverage of his administration.

On June 24, 2026, Ruto accused the Standard Group of conducting what he described as an “extortionist propaganda” campaign against his administration.

The President also addressed KANU chairman Gideon Moi, whose family is associated with ownership of the media organisation, and criticised what he described as repeated negative coverage of his administration.

Ruto said such reporting would not influence government decisions or compel his administration to change its position.

The Standard Group has continued to maintain its editorial independence and has published reports examining decisions and actions by the government and other public institutions.

Kaluma Files Lawsuit Against Standard

The latest security concerns also emerged on the same day that Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma filed a lawsuit against the Standard Media Group.

Kaluma is challenging reports concerning violence that occurred during a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay on August 16.

The lawmaker alleges that reports published by The Standard newspaper and broadcast on KTN News contained false and defamatory statements that damaged his reputation as a lawyer, family man and elected leader.

He is seeking damages and wants the court to order the media organisation to retract the reports and publish an apology.

The Standard Group has not been reported as having accepted the allegations made in Kaluma’s lawsuit.

The two developments have placed renewed attention on the relationship between political actors, media organisations and public demonstrations.

As Friday’s planned protest approaches, security agencies are expected to assess the situation and determine appropriate measures to maintain security around the Standard Group’s offices.

The media organisation has urged its staff to remain alert while continuing with its operations, saying its commitment to journalism and accountability remains unchanged.

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Standard Raises Alarm Over Threat to Attack Offices