KENYA: Ruto Explodes at Standard Group, Accuses Gideon Moi of Blackmail

By Moses Punyuah

President William Ruto has launched one of his strongest attacks yet on the media, accusing Standard Group owner Gideon Moi of using persistent negative coverage to allegedly blackmail his administration.

In a fiery social media post, Ruto dismissed what he termed as “extortionist propaganda” by the media house, insisting that criticism and hard-hitting headlines would not force his government to yield to pressure.

“Blackmail to yield to your greed? Never. Kenya belongs to all Kenyans, not you alone. Do your worst,” said Ruto.

The remarks have sparked debate over media freedom, presidential conduct and the growing tensions between the Kenya Kwanza administration and one of the country’s leading media houses.