Standard Media Group Radio Presenters Protest Over Delayed Salaries

It seems like there’s a significant issue at Standard Media Group regarding delayed salaries and a subsequent protest by radio presenters.

Radio presenters at Standard Media Group, hosting popular shows on stations like Radio Maisha, Spice FM, Berur FM, and Vybez Radio, have staged a protest due to prolonged delays in receiving their salaries. The protest, which began on Tuesday, saw presenters leaving their studios, resulting in music playing instead of regular programming

Employees have expressed mounting frustration over the late payments, with reports indicating some staff members have not been paid for several months. The situation has prompted vocal advocacy from the affected staff, leveraging organizations such as the Kenya Union of Journalists and the Media Council of Kenya to highlight their grievances and demand urgent intervention from management.

The unrest comes in the wake of Standard Media Group’s financial struggles, as evidenced by a reported loss of Sh1.26 billion for the fiscal year ending December 2023. The group’s total revenue also declined from Sh2.53 billion in 2022 to Sh2.38 billion, largely attributed to reduced advertising spending amidst a challenging economic climate.

Operating costs have simultaneously increased to Sh3.09 billion from Sh2.95 billion the previous year, driven by higher input costs and inflationary pressures. These financial pressures have evidently impacted the company’s ability to meet its financial obligations to staff, leading to the current standoff.

The appointment of Marion Gathoga-Mwangi as the new CEO raises expectations for addressing these issues and improving the company’s performance amidst the ongoing protests and operational challenges.