馃嚢馃嚜KenyaEast Africa
Standard Newspaper responds to President Ruto's blackmail accusations
via Tuko1 min read
The Standard Newspaper has issued a sharp response to President William Ruto after he accused the media outlet of blackmail. President Ruto, visibly frustrated by the coverage, targeted the paper's owner, former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, accusing him of attempting to blackmail him out of greed. Ruto sarcastically encouraged Moi to continue publishing the newspaper 'eight days a week,' stating he would not bow to pressure. The Standard fired back with a sarcastic post, featuring an illustration of Ruto on a newspaper cover, stating, "Due to overwhelming demand, we are printing the standard eight days a week! To meet your demand. Orders from above LOL." The newspaper emphasized its reputation as 'trusted, reliable, respected,' adding, "Even the president reads the Standard." The latest issue of The Standard, dated June 24, featured the Ruto administration on its front page with the headline 'Protest Anxiety,' discussing the likelihood of a successful protest on Thursday, June 25, commemorating the anti-Finance Bill 2024 protests.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
Kisumu is experiencing a division among its residents regarding the planned June 25 protests. One group marched against the demonstrations, carrying peace messages and white handkerchiefs, urging others to avoid the commemorative marches. They argued that the protests could disrupt peace, interfere with business operations, and negatively affect economic activities. Some anti-protest demonstrators chanted slogans supporting President William Ruto's bid for two terms and called for political stability. In contrast, another group, led by activist Boniface Akach, has vowed to proceed with peaceful commemorative demonstrations on Thursday. This group plans to start their procession at Kondele at 9 am, move through the city center, and deliver petitions to county and national government officials. They also intend to hold a candlelight vigil and prayers for young people who died during the 2024 protests. Akach raised concerns about potential infiltration by criminal elements and advised parents to keep children home and employees to boycott work in solidarity. He also appealed to business owners to temporarily close their premises due to reports of potential exploitation by criminals.
Human rights activist Bob Njagi was arrested in Kitengela, Kajiado County, on Wednesday, June 24, on allegations of planning and inciting public protests. The planned demonstrations were intended to honor individuals who died during the Gen Z protests on June 25, 2024. Kajiado County Police Commander Alex Shikondi confirmed Njagi's arrest, stating it followed the online circulation of a video showing Njagi rallying youth to protest. Shikondi declined to disclose Njagi's location due to security concerns. Authorities expressed fear that the video could lead to unrest and property destruction in Kitengela town. Shikondi assured local traders and residents of comprehensive security measures for Thursday, urging them to continue their daily routines without fear, and promised a heavy police presence. He warned that law enforcement would act decisively against any youth participating in protests or engaging in violence and vandalism.
Kenya is preparing to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking IDADA on Friday, June 26, at the NACADA Miritini Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa. The national event will gather government officials from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Mombasa County Government leaders, community-based organizations, youth representatives, and individuals in recovery. This year's commemoration aligns with the global theme, "World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," and will focus on emerging drug threats and innovative solutions. Key activities include discussions on Kenya's drug control policies, public awareness campaigns on synthetic drugs, and exhibitions showcasing rehabilitation approaches, including the expansion of NACADA's free women-focused recovery services. The event aims to reaffirm Kenya's commitment to stronger partnerships, technology-driven prevention, and evidence-based treatment programs. This comes as the National Police Service, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified operations against drug trafficking and illicit alcohol in Kilifi, Busia, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, and Kiambu counties, leading to arrests and seizures of bhang and chang'aa.