This archive report was first published on 30 October 2019.
Kenya's K24 media outlet, linked to the Kenyatta family, has been hit by economic hardship, leading to the layoff of some of its journalists.
According to sources, the decision was made after a meeting on October 30, 2019, attended by the CEO Ken Ngaruiya.
"The situation is bad, and the decision was made, although it's difficult," said the CEO.
Among those affected are prominent journalists like Frankline Wambugu, Mwanaisha Chidzuga, and Ahmed Juma Bhalo, who were reportedly let go due to the economic situation.
Other employees, including Fred Njiiri, Boniface Mutakha, and Ali Mtenzi, have also been affected by the layoffs.
According to reports, the economic hardship is due to the government's financial situation, which has made it difficult for the media outlet to pay its employees.
However, the CEO has assured the affected employees that they will receive guidance and support to help them cope with the situation.
It's worth noting that the layoffs have sparked concerns about the future of the media outlet, with some speculating that the new CEO, Salim Swaleh, may take over the Kiswahili department.
Swaleh, a former employee of Royal Media Services, left the company after being accused of being a spy for Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko during a crisis between the governor and the National Security Adviser, Karanja Kibicho.
