The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a notice to Standard Group PLC, threatening to revoke its broadcasting licenses due to an alleged outstanding debt of approximately Ksh48.7 million. This amount comprises Ksh13.7 million in license fees and Ksh34.9 million in Universal Service Fund (USF) levies.
Standard Group, which operates KTN News and other media outlets, contends that it had previously agreed with the CA on a repayment plan. The agreement included an initial payment of Ksh10 million in December 2024, followed by monthly installments of Ksh4 million starting January 2025. The company asserts that it has been honoring this arrangement.
Chacha Mwita, the Chief Executive Editor of Standard Group, has accused the government of using the debt issue as a means to intimidate the media house for its critical reporting on President William Ruto’s administration. Mwita highlighted that the government itself owes Standard Group over Ksh1.2 billion for advertising services, a debt that remains unpaid.
In response to the CA’s notice, Standard Group has filed a court application seeking an injunction to prevent the revocation of its licenses. The company maintains that it is committed to fulfilling its financial obligations and views the CA’s actions as an attempt to suppress press freedom.
This development occurs amid broader challenges faced by Standard Group, including financial difficulties that have led to staff layoffs and delayed salary payments. The Ministry of ICT recently canceled all advertising campaigns with the media house, further exacerbating its financial strain.
The situation underscores ongoing tensions between the Kenyan government and media organizations, raising concerns about press freedom and the financial sustainability of independent media in the country.
