Ruto Leads Nation in Mourning Veteran Broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela

President William Ruto has led the country in mourning veteran journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela, who passed away early Friday morning.

Ruto said Mbotela will be remembered for his integral role in shaping the media landscape.

“Mbotela will fondly be remembered for the integral role he played on our radio stations—through the mentoring of young broadcasters,” Ruto wrote.

He added, “He was a gifted and powerful broadcaster whose alluring voice dominated our airwaves with his first-class football commentaries and the signature programme “Je Huu Ni Uungwana?”

Other leaders who have mourned the death include the National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mungaro, and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.

Wetang’ula said, “I never imagined a day when Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s voice would fade into silence. For decades, his deep, commanding tone filled our airwaves, shaping conversations, instilling values, and chronicling Kenya’s journey through history.”

He went on to note, “His mastery of Swahili, his eloquence, and his ability to capture the essence of our culture made him a giant in the industry.”

Sifuna said, “I was privileged to meet Mambo Mbotela, the legend himself. A foremost patriot who truly loved Kenya, he challenged me to remain steadfast on the side of truth and justice. I extend my condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.”

Mung’aro described Mbotela’s passing as a great loss.

“We are deeply saddened by the demise of esteemed veteran journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela. He truly left a mark during his years in the media. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and the media fraternity,” he said.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) also joined in the mourning, saying, “As a nation, we have lost a great man, a laudable journalist and a leader in his own right. He has left an indelible mark on the history of our nation. We shall miss him.”

Mbotela, who graced television screens in a career spanning more than five decades, passed away at 85 years of age. His demise was confirmed by his daughter-in-law, Anne Mbotela.

Mbotela, who had been sickly, passed away while receiving treatment at a city hospital.