High-profile leaders in the country have paid tribute to veteran media personality Leonard Mambo Mbotela following his death Friday morning.
''We are heartbroken by the death of veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela. 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 Ungwana?” Ruto said.
Ruto said Mbotela will fondly be remembered for the integral role he played on Kenya’s radio stations — through the mentoring of young broadcasters.
“Our thoughts are with the family, their loved ones and the media fraternity at this difficult time. Rest In Peace, Mzee Mbotela,'' Ruto stated.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki described Mbotela’s death as devastating even as he described him as an icon of journalism who dominated Kenyan airwaves for more than a decade.
“Other than his prowess in football commentary and mastery of the Kiswahili language and the thousands of young journalists that he mentored over the years, we live to remember Mzee Mbotela for his popular program 'Je, huu ni ungwana?' that he used to advocate for social order and good governance,” Kindiki said.
“We condole with Leonard Mambo Mbotela's family, his fans, and the media fraternity. Rest in eternal peace, legend Leonard Mambo Mbotel.”
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also paid his tribute to the legendary media personality saying he wielded massive influence in the media industry and the country at large.
Raila said Mbotela was a dedicated public servant who spent his life informing, educating, and entertaining Kenyans through his informative programs.
“As a sports journalist, Mbotela excelled as an outstanding football commentator who made radio football commentary lively to listeners. His popular educative program Jee Huu ni Ungwana remains etched on the memory of many listeners as a moral compass on social relations,” Raila said.
“Leonard was not only a broadcaster but a friend and a supporter; my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the media fraternity. May Mzee Leonard Mbotela rest in eternal peace!”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in his condolence message said Mbotela’s death had shocked him.
Gachagua said Mbotela will remain a household name in journalism and the entire communication spectrum.
“Through his towering career in the media over the years, Mambo Mbotela has mentored many journalists, and shaped conversations, and narratives; notably his KBC Programme, "Jee Huu ni Ungwana" continues to remain strong mirror towards community moral fabric on what is right or wrong,” Gachagua said.
“I pass my deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and the entire media fraternity in the country and beyond. May the Soul of Mzee Mbotela rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon him.”
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka in his condolence message said:
''Extraordinary and Unforgettable. We have lost a true treasure; a remarkable work of art and resolute hope, whose empathy, humor and triculation kept more than a generation glued to their radio boxes and TV sets. Thank you Leonard Mambo Mbotela. God Rest your soul in eternal peace.''
Speaker for National Assembly Moses Wetangula also paid tribute to him even as he reminisced about his active days as a media practitioner.
Wetang’ula said for decades, Mbotela's deep, commanding tone filled our airwaves, shaping conversations, instilling values, and chronicling Kenya’s journey through history.
''I never imagined a day when Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s voice would fade into silence. Today, as I reflect on his passing, I feel the weight of this loss not just for the media fraternity but for the entire nation,'' he said.
''He remains arguably one of the most iconic media personalities in Kenya. His signature voice, mastery of Kiswahili and keen grasp of episodic moments in the history of our country underlined his work as an accomplished journalist,'' Senate Speaker Kingi noted.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen mourned Mbotela as a legendary broadcaster who was a beacon of professionalism, powerfully demonstrating that journalism can be a force for good.
Public Service CS Justin Muturi described him as ''more than just a journalist, he was a voice of wisdom, a storyteller, and a national treasure.''
''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,'' Nairobi Senator Sifuna stated.
CS Labour Alfred Mutua mourned him saying he played a huge role in shaping Kenya’s media landscape and inspiring generations of journalists and communicators through his voice and storytelling.
