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Guidelines

 

The Standard Arena – Editorial Guidelines

Last Updated: 29/11/2025

1. Our Mission

The Standard Arena is committed to delivering timely, accurate, and impactful journalism that informs, empowers, and engages readers across Kenya and beyond. We publish news, analysis, features, and multimedia content guided by truth, fairness, and public interest.

2. Core Editorial Principles

2.1 Accuracy & Verification

  • All information must be factual, verified, and sourced from credible authorities.
  • Reporters must confirm details with at least two independent sources for sensitive or high-impact stories.
  • Statistics must come from official, publicly verifiable agencies (KNBS, WHO, IEBC, UN, etc.).
  • Rumours, assumptions, or unverified claims are strictly prohibited.

Corrections Policy:
If an error appears, The Standard Arena will issue a correction, update, or clarification at the earliest opportunity with transparent attribution.

2.2 Fairness, Balance & Impartiality

  • All stories must present multiple sides of an issue where applicable.
  • No writer may intentionally favour any political party, business, or individual.
  • Headlines must reflect the article content accurately — no misleading or sensational titles.

2.3 Independence & Integrity

  • The Standard Arena maintains full editorial independence from advertisers, sponsors, and political actors.
  • Journalists must disclose:
    • Conflicts of interest
    • Personal relationships that could influence coverage
    • Financial interests in topics being reported
  • Accepting gifts, favours, or incentives that could compromise objectivity is prohibited.

3. Sourcing Standards

3.1 Acceptable Sources

  • Official documents and records
  • Government agencies
  • Recognized research institutions
  • Verified eyewitnesses
  • Accredited experts
  • Public statements made by leaders or institutions

3.2 Anonymous Sources

  • Allowed only when:
    • The information is crucial to public interest
    • The source is at risk of harm
    • Editors approve anonymity
  • Reporters must verify anonymous tips with additional evidence.

4. Content Creation Standards

4.1 Writing Style

  • Clear, concise, and accessible language.
  • Follow AP style unless otherwise specified.
  • Avoid jargon without explanation.
  • Avoid unnecessary sensationalism, loaded language, or bias.

4.2 Headlines

  • Must be accurate, reader-friendly, and SEO-optimized.
  • Should never exaggerate or mislead.

4.3 Multimedia Use

  • Photos, videos, and graphics must be factual and not manipulated.
  • AI-generated visuals must be labelled as such.
  • Copyright must be respected at all times.

5. Ethical Standards

5.1 Respect & Sensitivity

  • Avoid publishing content that is discriminatory, hateful, or harmful.
  • Exercise caution when covering:
    • Children
    • Grief and trauma
    • Crime and violence
  • Avoid graphic or disturbing imagery unless public interest requires it — and include warnings.

5.2 Privacy

  • We respect the privacy of individuals except where public interest outweighs privacy rights.
  • Publishing private information without consent is prohibited unless legally justified.

5.3 Crime & Legal Reporting

  • Avoid prejudicing court proceedings.
  • Use “suspect,” “alleged,” or “accused” until a court issues a conviction.
  • Do not identify sexual assault survivors unless they consent.

6. Sponsored, Partnered & Affiliate Content

  • Sponsored content must be clearly labelled (“Sponsored,” “Partner Content,” or “Advertiser Feature”).
  • Editors have the right to reject any sponsored material that contradicts our values.
  • Sponsored posts must never influence news reporting.

7. AI Usage Policy

  • AI tools may be used for:
    • Drafting initial outlines
    • Transcription
    • Background research
  • AI may not be used to fabricate facts or sources.
  • All AI-assisted content must be thoroughly reviewed and verified by human editors.

8. Social Media Guidelines

  • The Standard Arena staff must uphold professionalism on social platforms.
  • Journalists may share opinions but must avoid political campaigning or partisan endorsements.
  • Personal posts that compromise the newsroom’s credibility are prohibited.

9. Community Engagement & Feedback

We encourage readers to submit feedback, corrections, and story ideas.
Contact us at:
info@standardarena.co.ke
www.standardarena.co.ke/contact-us/

All valid concerns will receive a response within 48 hours.

10. Enforcement & Accountability

  • Violations of these guidelines may result in disciplinary action.
  • Editors are responsible for ensuring compliance.
  • We uphold the highest level of transparency, journalistic ethics, and accountability.