The Standard Group has announced the resignation of its Chief Executive Officer, Chaacha Mwita, in a major leadership change at one of Kenya’s leading media companies.

Mwita is expected to leave the company on November 1, 2026, just seven months after his appointment as the substantive CEO.

In a notice to shareholders and the public, the media company confirmed that Mwita would step down from both his position as chief executive and his role as an executive director.

The announcement was signed by Company Secretary Catherine Kawira on behalf of the board of directors. However, the company did not disclose the reasons behind his resignation.

The board expressed appreciation for Mwita’s service and recognised his contribution to the company’s operations during his time in leadership.

How Chaacha Mwita Rose to the Top

Mwita became the substantive CEO of Standard Group on April 1, 2026, after serving as acting chief executive from July 1, 2025.

He took over the acting position following the departure of his predecessor, Marion Gathoga-Mwangi, who left the company effective June 30, 2025.

His planned exit now leaves the media company facing another leadership transition as it continues operating in Kenya’s competitive media industry.

Standard Group operates several media platforms, including The Standard newspaper, KTN television and Radio Maisha.

The company has not yet announced who will succeed Mwita.

Standard Group Appoints Three New Directors

Mwita’s resignation comes amid wider changes to the company’s board.

Standard Group has appointed three independent non-executive directors: Anthony Ambaka Kegode, Tom Odongo and Elishah Njeru.

The appointments took effect on October 15, 2026, bringing additional experience in business leadership, corporate finance, investment strategy and governance to the board.

The appointments follow the resignations of two non-executive directors, Edward Mwasi and Dr James McFie, who left the board effective August 31, 2026.

The company announced their departures in a notice issued in October but did not provide reasons for their resignations.

The latest developments mark a significant period of leadership and board changes at Standard Group, with the company preparing for a new chief executive while welcoming three new members to its board.

For now, the reasons behind Mwita’s departure and the identity of his successor remain undisclosed.