Journalist Fired Over State House Report Lands Top Job at Standard Group
Veteran journalist Chaacha Mwita has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Editor (CEE) at the Standard Group, marking a significant return to the media house where he previously worked.
According to an official announcement by the company’s CEO, Marion Mwangi, Mwita will oversee all content production and support divisions, ensuring high editorial standards across the organization.
His appointment takes effect immediately.
His return comes after a turbulent period for the Standard Group, which recently faced financial struggles that led to the resignation of its former CEO, Orlando Lyomu.
Lyomu had spearheaded an expansion plan that backfired, leaving the company heavily burdened with debt.
“The Standard Group PLC is pleased to announce the appointment of Chaacha Mwita as the Chief Executive Editor (CEE).
In this role, he will be responsible for leading all content production and support divisions, reporting directly to the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO).
Additionally, he will play a key role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction,” read part of the official statement.
Mwita’s appointment is particularly notable because he is making a comeback to the company a decade after he was controversially dismissed.
Reports indicate that he was allegedly fired in 2014 after publishing a front-page exposé on State House, which led to his abrupt removal alongside two other journalists.
Sources claim that on April 4, 2014, Mwita and his colleagues were escorted out of the Standard Group offices by security officers following demands from State House for their termination.
Their offense? Publishing a report that detailed how the government had allegedly spent Ksh100 million on a lavish cabinet retreat at the prestigious Mt. Kenya Safari Club.
The story highlighted the extravagant nature of the retreat, revealing luxurious flights, high-end hotel accommodations, and executive services funded by public money.
Despite his controversial exit, Mwita is now being welcomed back with confidence, with the company expressing faith in his capabilities.
The Standard Group believes that his leadership and extensive journalistic expertise will help reinforce its commitment to bold and independent reporting.
“We trust that Chaacha’s outstanding track record as a journalist and media leader will bring immense value to our organization.
His appointment aligns with our vision of strengthening our journalism by maintaining boldness and independence,” Mwangi stated in the announcement.
Mwita boasts over two decades of experience in journalism, both locally and internationally. His career spans leadership roles in various African countries, including Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
He has been instrumental in improving newsroom operations, media sustainability, and developing strategic business models for media houses.
Academically, Mwita holds a Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree and a postgraduate diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Nairobi.
Additionally, he earned an MBA from the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, further solidifying his expertise in media management and leadership.
His appointment comes at a time when the Standard Group has been making waves with hard-hitting headlines that challenge authority and spark public conversations.
His leadership is expected to further enhance the company’s reputation for fearless and impactful journalism.
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