Standard Media Group was recently put on the spot after one of their freelance employees, Zanji Mukenya, threatened to end his life due to unpaid salary arrears.
Mukenya posted a viral video expressing his frustration and desperation over unpaid wages.
In the video, Mukenya who was standing at Standard Group premises, is heard saying, “Hopefully you guys see this when I am still alive. Am leaving here with my money or with my life in their hands.”
“I am not leaving here without my money. I am leaving here in two ways. I need to get there one way or another. So I either die or I get my money.”
Mukenya claimed that despite contacting the company repeatedly over his overdue payments, his pleas were ignored.
He made it clear that he was willing to risk everything to get the company to pay him.
“So Standard Media has refused to pay me, even if it was their mistake. So I die here today, or I get my money.” The visibly distressed Mukenya said.
Standard Media Group Responds
In response to the incident, Standard Media Group released a statement acknowledging the situation.
They expressed concern, stating, “Our attention has been drawn to the distressing incident that occurred this afternoon involving one of our freelancers who is currently on a sabbatical.”
“We acknowledge the severe impacts that the delay in payments has had, especially given the challenging financial circumstances the company is navigating.”
The Group stated that they had taken care of Mukenya’s immediate needs. And reaffirmed their commitment to clear all outstanding employee salary arrears.
“We are working diligently to support our employees during this difficult time. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to work through these challenges,” the statement added.
The company is facing serious financial struggles. As a result, Standard Media recently laid off over 300 employees as part of a restructuring effort.
The tough operating environment, influenced by shifts in media consumption and technological changes, has severely impacted the Group’s ability to generate revenue.
By Vivian K.