Dennis Itumbi has strongly criticized the Standard Media Group after they published a report claiming that Joseph Irungu, also known as Jowie, had been set free through a presidential pardon. The article by Standard suggested that Jowie was among 57 prisoners who were allegedly pardoned by President William Ruto using the power of mercy.
This news caused a stir online, with many Kenyans reacting to the claims before the media house took down the report. However, the damage had already been done as social media users had taken screenshots and shared them widely.
Dennis Itumbi took to his X account to condemn the report, calling it fake news and accusing the Standard Media Group of spreading false information. He stated that the Standard had become a hub for misinformation and lies.
“The Standard is the official fake news newsroom. Uwongo tupu,” he wrote, clearly annoyed by what he saw as irresponsible reporting.
His remarks echoed the anger of many who were confused by the sudden report about Jowie’s alleged release, which lacked confirmation from official government channels.
Joseph Irungu was sentenced to death in 2023 after being found guilty of the brutal murder of Monica Kimani, a young and successful businesswoman. The murder happened in 2019, shortly after Monica returned to Kenya from South Sudan where she was running several businesses.
The court had found strong and convincing evidence that Jowie was responsible for the crime. During the trial, it was revealed that Jowie used a fake ID to access Monica’s apartment in Kilimani, Nairobi. This suspicious behavior added to the doubts surrounding his intentions that night.
Witness testimonies and forensic evidence eventually led to his conviction.The case was widely followed by the public due to the shocking details and the high profile of those involved. Monica’s sudden death shocked many, and the gruesome nature of the murder left the public demanding justice.
Her family and friends had waited for years to see the case concluded and felt relieved when Jowie was finally convicted. That’s why the news of a presidential pardon stirred outrage and confusion among those who had closely followed the trial and judgment.
The report by the Standard raised serious questions about media responsibility and the importance of verifying sensitive information before publishing. Even though they later deleted the post, the incident had already spread panic and confusion.
As more Kenyans rely on digital platforms for updates, such mistakes can easily mislead the public and damage trust in the media. Itumbi’s reaction shows how strongly some leaders and citizens feel about the need for honest and accurate journalism, especially when it comes to serious matters like murder cases and presidential actions.
