By Jackson Ngari
A front-page graphic circulating on social media, purportedly from The Star newspaper dated July 14, 2022, claims that former President Uhuru Kenyatta paid for then-Deputy President William Ruto’s HIV treatment.
The main headline on the graphic attributes the declaration to former Defense Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, accompanied by a sub-headline describing Ruto’s health as a matter of national concern. The lead photo shows William Ruto with a blood pressure monitor attached to his arm.
Background
During the 2022 general election campaign period, Kenyan media outlets faced a surge in doctored newspaper covers and manipulated infographics designed to mislead voters. Front-page covers of major national dailies were frequently altered to insert sensational political statements or fabricated claims about leading political figures.
Verification
Piga Firimbi examined The Star’s e-paper archives for July 14, 2022, to verify whether the publication ran the alleged story.
The legitimate front page of The Star on July 14, 2022, had a completely different headline: “KU land tussle linked to control of hospital.”
The original story focused on administrative disputes over the management of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Research and Referral Hospital (KUTRRH).
The layout differences on the authentic front page include:
- Top Sub-headline: The genuine version reads, “MP’s report: Prof Wainaina picked as his legacy return of facility to the university.”
- Lead Images: The legitimate edition featured two campaign photos—William Ruto campaigning in Kwale and Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga in Kisii. It did not show Ruto with medical equipment.
- Secondary Stories: While the smaller side stories match those on the fake cover, the primary headline and central imagery were digitally replaced.
Additionally, The Star disowned the circulating cover across its verified X and Facebook pages, flagging it as counterfeit.
“If it is not on our official pages, it is FAKE! Get the real copy by visiting mgazeti.com,” the publication posted on its official accounts.
Verdict
The front-page image claiming The Star published a story on Uhuru Kenyatta paying for William Ruto’s medical care is ALTERED.
Add comment