The Standard Media Group has vowed to sue the government after the Communications Appeals Tribunal dismissed its appeal on licence revocations. The media house cites a Ksh 1.2 billion government debt for advertising. It plans to appeal to the High Court.
The Standard Media Group, through Chief Executive Officer Chacha Mwita, issued a statement on Saturday, March 28, 2026, rejecting the Communications Appeals Tribunal's ruling from Friday, March 27.
The tribunal dismissed the media house's appeal against the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA)'s plan to revoke six broadcasting licences over unpaid fees totalling Ksh 48.9 million.
"While we respect the judicial process, we have not received the complete ruling... we must categorically state that the matter is far from concluded," the Standard Group stated.
The broadcaster disputes CA's claims of prolonged non-payment despite notices, arguing the government owes it over Ksh 1.2 billion in advertising debts from state agencies.
"The Government cannot hold a knife to our throat with one hand while extending an empty promise of payment with the other. The remedy is simple: Pay what you owe The Standard Group, and we will pay what we owe the CA," it said.
Standard pledges to continue broadcasting and pursue all legal avenues, including a High Court appeal that it says would suspend the tribunal's decision. It warns against any shutdown before exhausting due process, calling it an overreach that threatens media freedom.
"This coordinated assault on our licences sends a chilling message: That the Government will use its regulatory power to silence any media house that refuses to bend the knee," the group stated.
It expressed confidence that justice will prevail, committing to protect its licences, staff, and service to Kenyans.