The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media
platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The
Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and
international interest.
A picture purportedly showing the leader of North Korea lying dead in a coffin is being shared online amidst feverish rumours of his demise.
In the picture, which appears to be doctored Kim Jong-un can be seen facing upwards with his head laid back on a pillow.
His suited body is mostly shrouded by a large red blanket.
READ ALSO: Kim Jong Un involved in a love triangle
The photo has been widely circulated on social media by those concerned or intrigued by the dictator's apparent death.
It seems to be fake however.
The image closely matches a photo taken of Kim Jong-il during his funeral in 2011 after he died of a heart attack.
The pillow, flower arrangement and angle are all the same.
The image has been attributed to both Japanese news network JNN and Hong Kong Satellite Television, although its actual origin is not clear.
Its emergence comes amidst growing speculation that Kim is either seriously ill or dead.
READ ALSO: Kim Jong-un begs North Koreans for cash to keep his dad's body frozen
He has not been seen in public for days, sparking speculation that the 36-year-old has come to some kind of harm.
This morning a state newspaper ran a letter of thanks from Kim to construction workers in the country - the first word heard from the tyrant in more than two weeks.
The dictator was not pictured however, meaning the report did little to quieten speculation that Kim is dead eight years into his reign.
READ ALSO: South Korea says North Korean leader Kim not gravely ill
If he is indeed dead or in a vegetative state as some reports have suggested, then a path to power for Kim's sister Kim Yo-jong could start to emerge.
.
