Standard Group Hits Back After Licence Blow, Cites KSh 1.2 Billion Government Debt

Standard Media Group is pushing back after a major regulatory setback. The Communications and Multimedia Appeals Tribunal approved the cancellation of six of its broadcasting licences. The decision followed a dispute over unpaid regulatory fees. The ruling now threatens key outlets under the media house.

The affected stations include KTN News, KTN Burudani, Radio Maisha, Spice FM, Vybez Radio and Berur FM. Regulators cited outstanding fees amounting to KSh 48.8 million. This includes licence fees and contributions to the Universal Service Fund. The tribunal dismissed the company’s appeal, clearing the way for enforcement action.

However, the media house has refused to back down. Acting CEO Chaacha Mwita said the company will challenge the decision in court. “The group will exercise its legal right to challenge this ruling before the superior courts,” he stated. He added that the legal team has already been instructed to act.

Mwita shifted focus to a bigger issue. He claimed the government owes the company over KSh 1.2 billion in unpaid advertising services. According to him, this debt has strained the company’s ability to meet its obligations. “If the government would simply settle the KSh 1.2 billion it owes us, we would settle every shilling owed,” he said.

He also accused authorities of targeting the media house for its reporting. “The Standard Group is being punished not for failing to pay a debt, but for failing to be silenced,” Mwita argued. He defended the newsroom, saying it has exposed corruption and held leaders accountable.

The company insists it remains operational despite financial challenges. It reported a loss of KSh 1.26 billion in 2023. Still, it maintains that services continue without interruption. Management has also pledged to protect jobs as the legal battle unfolds.

This case highlights growing tension between media houses and regulators. It also raises concerns about press freedom and financial pressure in the industry. The final outcome could reshape Kenya’s media landscape.