Media Council Raises Alarm Over ‘Sensationalism’ at Standard Group

The Media Council of Kenya has raised concerns over what it describes as a pattern of sensational reporting and ethical breaches by the Standard Group, warning that such practices risk eroding public trust in the media.

In a press statement issued on March 24, 2026, the Council cited a recent front-page headline alleging that former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju had been abducted – a claim it says lacked factual verification.

The report was published before Tuju later reappeared safely, raising questions about editorial standards and verification processes.

According to the Council, the incident reflects a broader trend where provocative headlines are prioritised over accuracy.

It argues that repeated use of unverified claims and failure to offer the right of reply amount to violations of the Code of Conduct for Media Practice.

The regulator warned that such editorial approaches risk undermining not just individual credibility, but the wider media ecosystem.

Trust and sustainability at stake

The Council cautioned that while sensational headlines may attract short-term attention, they weaken long-term public trust.

Once credibility is lost, it noted, both the social and commercial standing of a media house can be significantly affected.

It also pushed back against criticism directed at the regulator, stating that enforcing professional standards should not be interpreted as interference or censorship.

In its closing remarks, the Council urged the Standard Group’s editorial leadership to return to core journalistic principles, including fact-checking before publication and respecting the right of reply.

It reaffirmed its position that Kenya’s media must remain both bold and truthful, warning that sensationalism at the expense of accuracy undermines the integrity of the profession and the democratic space.