Standard Media Group criticised for announcing firing of 170 employees amid coronavirus crisis

Standard Group criticized for announcing firing of 170 employees amid coronavirus crisis

Tony Mukere

March 20, 2020 10:29 AM

Bad time to lose a job

Standard Media Group criticised for announcing firing of 170 employees amid coronavirus scare

A section of Kenyan netizens have criticised the Standard Media Group over what they described as poor timing of an announcement indicating intention to sack 170 employees on the grounds of redundancy.

The conversation on the timing emerged after the Standard Group CEO Orlando Lyomu sent an internal memo issuing notice of redundancy.

Lyomu said the decision was informed by the need to restructure the company's operations in line with the changing economic climate.

"I wish to notify you of the company's intention to declare redundant about 170 positions across various department..The company therefore gives a one month's notice of its intention to declare redundancy with effect from the date hereof. The affected employees will be informed in writing," the CEO stated in a memo dated March 18th.

Many Kenyans who commented faulted the Standard for the timing of the announcement which has come as many Kenyans are facing uncertainty over the coronavirus epidemic.

The shutdown of various companies makes it difficult for those who lose their jobs to find an alternative job with the economic situation expected to get worse from the hit the economy will take from the repercussions of the coronavirus epidemic.

"Some People are so In Human,Why is the Standard Media Group Sending home 170 of Its workers... Amid Economic Crises in the Country?" Kosgei posted on Twitter.

"Looks like besides Corona worries over job security, a massacre is looming at standard group targeting 170. Move aimed to cut spending," @chothep commented.

"Really praying for my colleagues at Standard Group. That memo has come at a very tough moment," journalist Olive Mathenge opined.

Tony Mukere