'Legendary, gifted, patriot’: Ruto, Uhuru, Raila lead in mourning broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela

President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning veteran broadcast journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela who passed away on Friday morning.

The 84-year-old, well known for his iconic ‘Jee, Huu ni Ungwana?’ TV segment on KBC, died at around 9:30 a.m. after a long illness.

Shortly after the death announcement, key political figures countrywide took to social media to condole with the family as they poured out heart-warming tributes to remember the seasoned journalist.

President Ruto mourned Mbotela as a gifted and powerful broadcaster, sports commentator, as well as a mentor in the media field.

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

“Our thoughts are with the family, their loved ones and the media fraternity at this difficult time. Rest In Peace, Mzee Mbotela.”

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, in an emotional tribute, termed Mbotela as a “great Kenyan patriot” who used his voice to ensure the principal role of media in informing the public was well utilized.

He underscored Mbotela’s journalistic skills as a tool to educate, assure the public and give hope for a better future, noting that his humility amidst fame has left an indelible mark on society.

“His voice will be remembered by many at the time the country was undergoing some political challenges. He came out as an assuring voice calming the country and giving hope to the citizens that the future is bright,” Kenyatta said.

The former Head of State noted that “Mr Mambo’s deep mastery of the Swahili language, proverbs and sayings besides his ever-smiling demeanour endeared him to many listeners,” noting that his “voice was distinct and reassuring.”

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, on his part, expressed sadness at the passing of Mbotela whom he termed as his friend, remembering him for his dedication to serving the public through his program and career.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Leonard Mambo Mbotela this morning. Leonard, a veteran journalist and a broadcaster with immense influence in the media industry and the country as a whole, was a dedicated public servant who spent his life informing, educating, and entertaining Kenyans through his informative programs,” Raila said.

“As a sports journalist, Mr. 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.”

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said Mbotela’s legacy across the media fraternity would forever continue to inspire and influence future journalists.

“His iconic voice and dedication to journalism brought us together, leaving an unforgettable mark on the industry and beyond. Forever remembered for his signature phrase, ‘Jee, huu ni Ungwana?’, his legacy of inspiration, resilience, and storytelling will live on. May the cherished memories of his remarkable journey bring comfort during this difficult time,” Mudavadi said.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and his Senate Counterpart Amason Kingi shared their heartfelt condolences, praising the deceased for instilling timeless virtues of dignity and decency in the society.

“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. Growing up, Mbotela’s show, Je, Huu Ni Ungwana? was more than just a radio program it was a moment of reflection, a lesson in morality, and a guiding force for a society that needed constant reminders of dignity and decency. His mastery of Swahili, his eloquence, and his ability to capture the essence of our culture made him a giant in the industry,” said Wetangula.

Kingi added: “Leonard Mambo Mbotela 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.”

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka termed Mbotela as an extraordinary and unforgettable face in the media, which through time had been a source of joy and happiness for many families.

“Leonard was a household name. His voice on the 'Jee Huu Ni Uungwana' radio and TV programme on KBC was distinguishable from that of emerging African media practitioners. Mambo's smile ensured you too smile, lighting up every room he strode into. He had a genuine interest in people and it reflected in his interview,” said Kalonzo.

“It was these qualities and more so his integrity, that made Mambo a target in the attempted August 1, 1982 coup. It was his courage - under a gun to his head - that calmed our nation. 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.”

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reflected on Mbotela's life as a mentor to other journalists, pinpointing his style of shaping national conversations through his programmes.

“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,” said Gachagua.

Other leaders who shared their condolence messages included Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi who said: “Leonard Mambo Mbotela was more than just a journalist, he was a voice of wisdom, a storyteller, and a national treasure. From the days of Voice of Kenya (VoK) to KBC, he used the airwaves to inform, educate, and instil values through his iconic program ‘Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?’ His impact on Kenya’s media landscape is unmatched, and his legacy will live on for generations.”

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna stated: “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.”