Edward Kisiang’ani’s name is well known in Kenya’s political and media circles.
Once a respected political analyst whose sharp insights made him a household name, Kisiang’ani has now found himself on the receiving end of criticism—for turning against the very media that gave him a platform.
A Star Born in the Media
For years, Kisiang’ani was a regular face on TV panels, offering deep political analysis on top media stations like NTV, Citizen TV, and KTN. His articulate and often controversial takes made him a go-to pundit, with news anchors frequently relying on his commentary to break down the country’s political landscape.
His rise through the media ranks wasn’t just about his intellect—it was also about trust. Viewers tuned in to hear his balanced and thought-provoking perspectives. He was respected, and the media played a huge role in shaping his public image.
A Shift in Loyalty
However, everything changed when Kisiang’ani crossed over from being a media commentator to a government insider.
Appointed as the Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, he suddenly became a defender of the very political forces he once analyzed with skepticism.
As a government official, Kisiang’ani has taken a hard stance against the media, frequently calling out journalists and media houses for what he now terms biased reporting. Ironically, the same media houses that once amplified his voice are now the targets of his attacks.
Biting the Hand That Fed Him?
Critics argue that Kisiang’ani’s transformation is not about principle, but about convenience. He was once a darling of the press because he had no direct ties to the government. Now, as an insider, his rhetoric has shifted to protecting the system he once critiqued.
Some have likened his turnaround to that of former journalists who, after securing government positions, become the very people who suppress media freedom.
His recent public statements show a stark contrast between the independent thinker he once was and the government spokesperson he has become.
The government, through Kisiang’ani, has cancelled Standard Group’s media contract with the Ministry of Irrigation, allegedly due to its critical reporting. Standard Group was initially selected alongside Nation Media Group (NMG), The Star, Cape Media, and KBC to run a campaign for the launch of the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP).
A letter from the ICT Ministry to Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho confirmed Standard Group’s removal from the campaign following “administrative advice.” Signed by Michael Okidi on behalf of PS Kisiang’ani, the letter revoked Standard Group’s inclusion despite the contract being signed on March 13, 2025. The move has raised concerns over media freedom, with critics viewing it as retaliation against the outlet’s critical coverage of government affairs.
The Bigger Picture: A Familiar Trend
Kisiang’ani’s case is not unique. Kenya’s history is filled with media personalities who, after years of benefiting from the platforms and credibility of the press, switch sides once they enter politics or government. Many of them then work to silence the very voices that helped them rise.
This raises important questions:
Should the media continue giving platforms to political analysts who might later turn against press freedom?
Is Kisiang’ani’s change of tune a betrayal of the public trust he once enjoyed?
Final Thought
Edward Kisiang’ani’s journey from a respected media analyst to a government defender is a classic case of how power can change perspectives. Whether his new stance is genuine or politically motivated, one thing is clear: he has officially joined the long list of Kenyans who, after dining at the media’s table, turned around and bit the very hand that fed them.
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