Standard Media Freelance Employee Storms Office Demanding Delayed Payment: "I Die Or Get My Money"

• A freelance employee of Standard Media Group stormed the media house's offices, demanding that the company pay him the money they owe him
• He affirmed his determination to do whatever it takes and expressed his willingness to risk everything to get the company to pay him
• The man complained that he had repeatedly tried to contact the veteran media house about his salary, but without success

A freelance employee of Standard Media has stormed their offices, demanding payment for the services he has provided to the company.

What did Standard Media's employee do?

In a video shared online, the male employee is seen wearing his office badge around his neck on the company premises.

The man then records a video of himself explaining to his social media followers that his goal is to get the company to pay him.

He affirmed his readiness to do whatever it takes and expressed his willingness to risk everything including his life to get the company to pay his salary.

"So standard media has refused to pay me, even if it was their mistake so I die here today or I get my money," he said.

He alleged that the media house had ignored his pleas, prompting him to visit the company to demand his payment.

"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. Hopefully, you guys see this when I'm still alive," he said.

How did the Standard respond?

In a statement seen by TUKO.co.ke, the media outlet expressed sympathy for the employee and asserted that they had addressed his immediate needs.

"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 statement read in part.

The company also stated that it remains committed to resolving all outstanding salary arrears and ensuring timely payment.

"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."

Standard Media to lay off over 300 employees

The media house had announced the termination of over 300 employees across various departments as part of a restructuring process.

According to a statement from the Group, affected employees were to be notified individually and would receive a one-month notice starting Wednesday, July 31.

The board stated that evolving media consumption trends, driven by technological advancements in digital media and shifting preferences, have created a challenging operating environment and prolonged difficulties in generating revenue.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.