Kenyans have been circulating two viral images appearing to be front pages of the Standard newspaper, featuring sensational headlines about former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua and governor of Nyeri, Mutahi Kahiga. However, a closer examination reveals that these covers are fabricated.
The two fake front pages, which emerged online in October 2025, carry the headlines “Angel of Death” and “Voice of the Devil.” They appear to be authentic covers of the Standard, complete with a masthead, large headline, and a prominent photograph of the Kenyan political figures. The summaries accompanying the headlines portray Gachagua and Kahiga as toxic figures, implying that the Standard published harsh stories about them.
Gachagua, who served as Kenya’s deputy president from 2022 until his impeachment in October 2024, has been a fierce critic of President William Ruto. Kahiga, the governor of Nyeri county, is perceived as one of Gachagua’s close allies. Their relationship has fueled speculation about a Mount Kenya-based coalition pushing back against Ruto’s influence.
The fabricated front pages began circulating after the death of Kenya’s former prime minister, Raila Odinga, on October 15, 2025. During this period, online debates centered on differing political reactions to Odinga’s illness and death. The timing of the fake front pages suggests they were designed to present Gachagua and Kahiga as divisive figures at a sensitive national moment.
An investigation by Africa Check compared the circulating front pages with a genuine one from the Standard newspaper, revealing significant differences in fonts, indicating that they are not authentic. The origin of the fake front pages was traced to a Facebook page called Daily Standard, which has previously posted digitally altered front pages mimicking the design of the Standard newspaper.
The Standard typically posts digital versions of its front pages on its verified social media accounts and e-paper platform. A search of these accounts and the platform revealed the authentic front pages for October 21 and 22, which carried different headlines: “Honoured in death” and “Out with freedoms.” Neither of these front pages included any reference to Gachagua and Kahiga.
The circulation of fake news can have significant consequences, particularly during sensitive national moments. It is essential to verify information through reputable sources to avoid spreading misinformation. In this case, the fake front pages were likely designed to manipulate public opinion and fuel political tensions.