Reports that DP Ruto ordered closure of Chamgei FM not true

– According to a source at Royal Media Services, Chamgei FM has not been closed by Communication Authority; presenters are away on a retreat
– There were rumours that Deputy President ordered the closure of the station after a morning show programme touched on corruption in the  Jubilee administration
Reports circulating about the closure of a vernacular radio station by government officials are false.
According to a reliable source at Royal Media Services (RMS), Chamgei FM has not been shut. The station’s presenters are away on a retreat.

Chamgei FM, one of RMS’ 14 radio stations, broadcasts in Kalenjin and has a huge audience in the Rift Valley region.
The station had been playing only music sparking speculations that it had been barred from running its usual programming following unfavourable comments about Deputy President William Ruto.

“DP closed Chamgei FM after callers attacked him. Chamgei FM is currently off air following yesterday’s (Wednesday, February 24) morning show where Nandi Hills legislator Alfred Keter fumed at DP over corruption in the government,” said Kenneth K Lagat on Facebook.

Lagat also claimed that Ruto ordered Communication Authority revoke the Chamgei FM’s broadcast licence until further notice.
Despite claiming editorial independence from its owner SK Macharia, Royal Media Services has always been seen as leaning towards the opposition.
In December 2012, Macharia was named a member of CORD’s top organ – the summit – alongside the coalition’s principals Raila Odinga, Kalonzo Musyoka and Moses Wetangula.
The RMS chairman, who controls more that 50% of the broadcast industry, have had close relations with the Odinga’s since the times of the Raila’s father – Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
He however maintained that the political association was a personal decision that would not affect the company’s operations.