Trade and Industrialization Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria is facing criticism and controversy after refusing to apologize for derogatory remarks he made against the Nation Media Group. The Trade Cabinet Secretary accused the media house of threatening to dismiss a journalist for pursuing a balanced story, although he provided no evidence to support his claims.
During a Senate session, Kuria reiterated his stance and stated that he would not apologize. He demanded an apology from the media outlet instead, alleging that they had mistreated journalist Gerald Andai. Despite asserting his support for the media, Kuria refused to back down from expressing his own perspective.
The demand for a public apology arose after Kuria labeled the Nation Media Group as an “opposition party” during a public event in Embu. He further suggested that government agencies should cease advertising with the media house, except for specific types of advertisements such as auctions and funeral announcements. Kuria even threatened to dismiss any state official who placed ads with the media outlet.
The controversy surrounding Kuria’s remarks prompted Azimio Senators to stage a walkout during a Senate session, protesting his appearance and creating a temporary quorum hitch. Opposition Senators voiced their objections, stating that Kuria’s outburst against the media warranted a censure motion. The Speaker disallowed the motion’s discussion, citing procedural issues, which led to further dissent.