May 7, 2026
MEDIA FREEDOM: Standard Boldly Slams Murkomen, Junet Over 'Genocide' Remarks

MEDIA FREEDOM: Standard Boldly Slams Murkomen, Junet Over ‘Genocide’ Remarks

The Standard Newspaper has strongly criticized recent statements made by Suba East MP Junet Mohammed and Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen.

The newspaper accused the authorities of carrying out coordinated attacks on media freedom.

The Editorial Team of the Saturday Standard criticized Junet’s outburst in Parliament, in which he accused the Standard Group and its stockholders of promoting genocide.

According to the Standard, Junet’s charges are libelous, provocative, and dangerous, sending a chilling message to journalists across the country.

“To liken any media house to the propagandist machinery of Rwanda’s dark past that fueled the 1994 genocide is not only misleading but insulting to the memory of over 800,000 lives lost,” the Standard boldly said.

“It is tantamount to dancing on their remains for political mileage. Shame on you!”

The Standard further criticized Junet’s attempt to draw former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, a Media House stakeholder, into the dispute by implying links to Rwandan genocide financier Félicien Kabuga.

“This is not parliamentary oversight; it is a personal attack disguised as political concern,” the editorial said.

The media outlet also chastised Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen for his harsh speech toward the media, describing it as part of a trend of antagonism toward independent journalism.

Despite the leaders’ criticisms, the media outlet has promised Kenyans that it will continue to uphold its mandate of brave, independent, and trustworthy journalism, promising not to be silenced by political intimidation.

ALSO READ:

The editorial also reminded Parliament of its constitutional duty to protect the Fourth Estate and not destroy it.

“Do not allow personal vendetta to override constitutional values. When in doubt, look up at the motto inscribed at the door to your chamber ‘For the welfare of society and the just government of the people’,” the media house continued.

The quarrel between the leaders and the media outlet comes amid rising political tensions following the June 25 protests, which killed 19 people and injured hundreds.

The media, notably The Standard, has played an important role in chronicling the violence and raising calls for accountability.

MEDIA FREEDOM: Standard Boldly Slams Murkomen, Junet Over ‘Genocide’ Remarks

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *