Ochieng Rapuro’s resignation as Editor-in-Chief of Standard Media Group has sparked a wave of relief and celebration among employees, ending what many described as a contentious chapter for the newsroom.
The surprise exit, alongside Chief Finance Officer Wesley Kimosop, comes amid growing turmoil at the Moi family-owned media house.
Sources suggest that Rapuro’s departure was less a choice and more a strategic retreat.
Allegations of questionable dealings with suppliers and service providers reportedly left him with little option but to step down.
“He had to leave before the situation escalated,” an insider disclosed.
Kimosop, who joined the company in late 2023, also resigned after just a year.
His exit is believed to be tied to an ongoing investigation into financial irregularities at the company.
For many employees, Rapuro’s resignation felt long overdue. He faced accusations of presiding over an oppressive work culture, including the controversial dismissal of high-profile journalists such as Roselyne Obala, Moses Nyamori, Linda Ogutu, and Geoffrey Mosoku.
“It’s a huge relief. His leadership made our jobs unbearable, and his resignation gives us a chance to start afresh,” shared one staff member.
Rapuro officially stepped down on December 30, following a summons to record a statement over alleged misuse of company funds. Efforts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful.
The Standard Group, one of Kenya’s oldest media institutions, has been battling severe financial instability.
Prolonged salary delays have pushed many employees to the brink, with some resorting to casual jobs or facing evictions. Others have withdrawn their children from private schools to cope with the financial strain.
In mid-2024, the company laid off over 300 employees, promising redundancy payments over a year. However, the failure to honor payments for three consecutive months has left affected staff disillusioned and frustrated.
“This company abandoned us after we gave it everything. Many of us have been reduced to begging,” lamented a former employee.
As Standard Media Group’s largest shareholder, Gideon Moi is reportedly leading efforts to stabilize the company. Insiders hint at more leadership changes as part of the ongoing restructuring process.
Speculation is already swirling around Rapuro’s replacement, with veteran journalist Chacha Mwita emerging as a strong contender. However, details on the timing of his potential appointment remain unclear.
Joining the Standard Group in 2019 after a tenure at Nation Media Group, Rapuro leaves behind a legacy clouded by allegations of mismanagement and mistreatment of employees.
