Journalism is not a crime: Larry Madowo stands up for Standard editor after abduction
By Katemarthason Okudo, September 2, 2026CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo has spoken out in support of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich following his abduction along the Gilgil-Nakuru highway, saying journalists should be allowed to do their work without fear.
Madowo reacted to the incident in a post shared on his X account on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, as concerns grew over Kiprotich’s whereabouts after he was reportedly taken by armed men on Tuesday night, September 1, 2026.
The journalist highlighted the situation while linking it to Kiprotich’s work and the importance of press freedom.
“Overnight, a prominent Kenyan editor was abducted by gun-wielding men after a series of newspaper stories critical of President Ruto and his government. Journalism is not a crime,” Madowo wrote.
Alex Kiprotich found safe
The Standard Group had earlier raised the alarm after Kiprotich was abducted shortly before 9:20 pm while travelling along the Gilgil-Nakuru road.
The media organisation shared footage showing armed men trailing and intercepting the editor’s vehicle before taking him away. The incident prompted concerns from journalists and members of the public over his safety.
However, the situation changed later on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, during the morning hours when the Standard Group announced that Kiprotich had been found safe.
According to the media house, Kiprotich was located near Masinga Dam after being dumped by his captors in the early hours of the morning. He later sought refuge with a nearby family, who took him in before a Standard Group team arrived.
The team, led by Group CEO Chaacha Mwita, located him at around 6:30 am. The media house said he was safe but understandably shaken following the ordeal.
Standard Group calls for accountability
The Standard Group said the circumstances surrounding Kiprotich’s abduction remained troubling and called for full accountability.
The incident also came just over two months after an earlier attempt to seize Kiprotich on June 27, when armed men reportedly tried to force him out of his vehicle as he travelled to work in Nakuru. He escaped by locking his doors and driving away.
The media company had linked the latest incident to Kiprotich’s editorial work, particularly coverage scrutinising the conduct of the State, and called for an independent investigation into both incidents.
In its latest statement, the Standard Group expressed relief that the editor was back safely while thanking those who joined the overnight search. “For now, we are simply grateful that Alex is safe,” the company said.
Madowo backs press freedom
Madowo’s remarks come amid renewed discussions about the safety of journalists in Kenya and the need to protect freedom of the media.
The recovery of Kiprotich has brought relief to his colleagues, family and supporters, although questions remain about who was behind the abduction and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
For Madowo, the incident has also served as a reminder of the role journalists play in holding those in power to account. “Journalism is not a crime,” he said.