How The Standard Newspaper Mastered Headlines That Captivated the Nation
In today’s digital era, where news is consumed with a scroll or a tap, making people stop and pay attention to a newspaper is no easy task.
Yet, one media house based on Mombasa Road seems to have cracked the code—making bold moves and quite literally setting “The Standard.”
For years, The Standard described itself as Kenya’s boldest newspaper. But that tagline only started to truly reflect reality recently, when the outlet took a fearless approach in confronting the government head-on.
Let’s be honest: the current leadership needed to be held accountable, and the official opposition had gone quiet, especially after the famous handshake deal which seemed to soften the political atmosphere.
So, who would fill that critical gap? Someone had to rise to the occasion—whether an individual, a movement, or even an institution. In journalism, spotting what’s missing in public discourse and daring to speak up is key.
The editorial team at The Standard clearly recognized this void and came up with a daring plan. They tested it once, then again, and again. It clicked. Their headlines went viral across X (formerly Twitter), cutting through the noise and becoming the loud, unapologetic voice many Kenyans were waiting for.
These headlines mirrored what millions of citizens were whispering in private. They didn’t hold back—they hit hard, called out top leaders, and splashed their faces across the front pages without fear.
Kenyans welcomed this with open arms. After years of scandals, looting, unanswered questions, and rising national debt, people were exhausted and desperate for honest storytelling that truly reflected their frustrations.
So, how did The Standard manage to do it?
According to senior editors within the newsroom, journalism had started to feel watered down. They believed it was time to restore its power and authenticity, even if it came with risks.
“For a long time, the media played it safe, scratching only the surface. We felt the urge to say what ordinary people were saying on the streets and online,” said one experienced editor.
“Our country has suffered enough. It was time someone took a stand and held leaders to account. These bold headlines? They weren’t accidental—they were carefully planned, and they reflect the true feelings of everyday Kenyans.”
Another editor added, “Journalism is supposed to inform and educate. But now, we’ve also taken up the responsibility of speaking on behalf of those who feel unheard. We’re not activists—we’re just journalists who want to see change.”
Among the many headlines that caught national attention were: Lying President, You’re Unfit to Lead, Our Turn to Eat, Tower of Babel, Ruthless President, Big Man Syndrome, and Blood on Their Hands—all designed to provoke thought, ignite conversation, and stir action.
Were they worried about consequences?
Another senior journalist said the decision to confront power came after observing the government operating without much pushback. Even the opposition seemed worn out and uninterested.
“There were so many scandals, but everyone was quiet. That’s when we stepped up.
“Didn’t you notice our newspapers being held high like protest signs during Maandamano? We’ve been dominating online conversations for weeks.
That’s proof enough that the headlines are working and we’ve earned the people’s trust,” she said confidently.
President William Ruto, in particular, has often found himself under the paper’s microscope.
For instance, during an April tour of Central Kenya, Ruto claimed that Kenyan tea was being exported to Sudan. The Sudanese government immediately dismissed the claim.
Shortly after, former Public Service CS Justin Muturi openly criticized Ruto, accusing him of greed for deals. Then, security officials began issuing conflicting statements, suggesting deep divisions within the country’s top leadership—a clear communication mess.
Things got worse when Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen made public remarks about kidnapped Kenyans being found and reunited with families. His version clashed with the President’s earlier statements, revealing possible confusion or cover-up within top government ranks.
Unsurprisingly, the bold coverage didn’t sit well with the powers that be. In April, The Standard revealed that the government was threatening to revoke its broadcasting licence.
The Communications Authority Saga
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) issued a notice accusing the media house of defaulting on a Ksh43 million regulatory fee. But The Standard countered that the amount had been agreed upon during a government negotiation in December of the previous year.
According to the agreement, The Standard Group was to make an initial payment of Ksh10 million—which they paid on December 27—and then clear an additional Ksh24 million once a Rights Issue was finalized. Despite this, the threat of revocation loomed large.
Locked Out of State House
Things escalated again on May 31, when The Standard’s reporters were denied access to a high-profile event at State House.
They were scheduled to cover the visit of Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar, but were deliberately blocked while reporters from other media outlets were allowed in.
Technical Problems or Something More?
On May 23, The Standard Group announced an unexpected interruption in its TV and radio services. They issued a short statement saying most of their platforms were temporarily down due to a technical issue. But with tensions already high, many wondered if it was truly just a technical glitch—or something more.
Criticism from ODM
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) also went after The Standard, accusing it of launching a smear campaign against Raila Odinga and his family.
On May 5, ODM’s Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen issued a statement slamming a controversial article titled Our Turn to Eat, which alleged that several of Odinga’s relatives had landed top government roles after the handshake deal with Ruto.
Ong’wen condemned the piece as misleading and damaging, especially since Odinga had taken enormous political risks for the sake of national peace and unity.
Reactions from Political Leaders
In April, Kericho Senator and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot publicly criticized the Kenyan media for what he described as disrespectful coverage of President Ruto. Speaking at the funeral of former MP John Koech, Cheruiyot accused media outlets, including The Standard, of ridiculing the presidency instead of respecting it.
Still, despite pressure from all sides, The Standard has stood firm. Its editors remain committed to one mission: shining a light on government failures and ensuring that no one in power operates without scrutiny.
The paper’s transformation has not only revived public trust in journalism, but also reminded Kenya—and perhaps the world—that bold, principled reporting still has a place, even in a noisy digital age.
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