The Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) and the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) have strongly criticized Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria for his recent comments targeting Nation Media Group (NMG).

The attack came in response to an exposé by NTV, a station under NMG, which alleged that Cabinet Secretaries were involved in manipulating the price of edible oils, resulting in a loss of approximately Sh5.6 billion for taxpayers.

In a statement released on Monday, KUJ Secretary General Erick Oduor expressed his disappointment, stating that Kuria had become a symbol of national shame. Oduor emphasized that as a Cabinet Secretary, Kuria's actions and words should promote a positive image of Kenya as a nation.

"The CS's reaction to media reports on one of the many scandals that have plagued the Kenya Kwanza administration within a span of 10 months is embarrassing to Kenyans," Oduor said.

He called on President William Ruto to take action in response to Kuria's remarks, highlighting that leaders serve as mirrors of society.

Zubeida Kananu, the President of KEG, also called for an apology from CS Kuria in light of his inappropriate comments.

"The Kenya Editors' Guild expects an unconditional apology from CS Kuria for these regrettable remarks. Editors, journalists, and all media practitioners expect assurance from the Kenya Kwanza administration that CS Kuria's sentiments do not reflect government policy and that media enterprises will be given the space to fulfill their mandate," Kananu stated.

She emphasized the vital role of the media in democracy, including holding those in power accountable. Kananu added that the media operates within the boundaries of the law and if any State Officer or individual is aggrieved by the media's work, there are appropriate avenues to address their concerns, such as legal recourse or direct communication with the media organization involved.

"We do not have the full context in which these unwarranted, uncalled-for, and completely off-the-mark remarks were made, as the CS did not provide further explanation," Kananu noted.

"However, it is safe to conclude that the CS is unhappy with the work of Nation Media Group in informing and educating Kenyans."