Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General, Francis Atwoli, remarked on Wednesday, June 19, that his efforts to advocate for workers' rights at Standard Group PLC are complicated by his marriage to Mary Kilobi, who works at the media organization.

Speaking at a press conference, Atwoli acknowledged the difficulty in championing the cause of Standard Group employees, who have gone months without salaries, due to potential conflicts of interest.

Atwoli explained that he had initiated discussions with former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, a major shareholder in the company.

"You know very well that the main shareholder of Standard Media Group is Gideon of KANU. I had a long conversation with him up to a certain extent," Atwoli told journalists. "I did not want to go further than that, otherwise he would have said your wife also works there."

Atwoli expressed concerns that pushing Gideon Moi too hard could lead to accusations of favoritism towards his wife. Despite this challenge, he revealed that Gideon Moi assured him that efforts were being made to address the company's issues.

"What we are praying is that it should not go under because it might not come out after it has gone under, and it will be a big problem," Atwoli added.

He also mentioned that the recent change in leadership at Standard Group could potentially improve the media house's situation.