Standard Group PLC has strongly opposed a tribunal ruling that allows the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) to revoke its broadcasting licences, accusing the government of double standards.
The media house says it is being pressured to pay KSh48.9 million in regulatory fees while state agencies allegedly owe it over KSh1.2 billion for advertising and media services.
Claims of Double Standards
Standard Group argues that the government’s failure to settle its outstanding bills has significantly strained its operations, making it difficult to meet regulatory obligations.
The company termed it unjust for the same state demanding payment to delay settling its own dues.
Plans to Challenge Ruling
The media house has vowed to challenge the tribunal’s decision in higher courts, maintaining that the ruling is flawed and must be overturned.
It warned that any attempt to shut down its stations before the appeal is heard would be unlawful.
Press Freedom Concerns
Standard Group further cautioned that the move could undermine media independence in Kenya.
According to the company, revoking its licences under the current circumstances would amount to an attack on press freedom and send a chilling message to independent media houses operating in the country.
The dispute now sets the stage for a legal battle that could have wider implications for media regulation and freedom of the press in Kenya.
