Seasoned Citizen TV Swahili news anchor Mashirima Kapombe left viewers stunned on Monday, November 11, when she almost lost her composure while delivering the 1 pm news.
The anchor, known for her calm and composed demeanor, paused mid-broadcast after reading a statement by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei regarding the recent abduction of two Kenyan activists in Uganda.
Their ordeal sparked widespread condemnation online and in Kenya, with citizens demanding urgent government intervention to secure their release. While many Kenyans expressed outrage over the activists’ treatment, Cherargei’s reaction shocked the nation.
Instead of condemning the abduction and torture, the youthful senator publicly applauded the Ugandan government for ensuring that the activists “received proper discipline” before being freed.
Speaking in church, Cherargei reportedly encouraged President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu to act decisively against Kenyan activists who “export” their activism across borders.
When the controversial statement appeared on the teleprompter, Kapombe paused momentarily, visibly weighing her words before proceeding with the broadcast. Observers noted her subtle, yet unmistakable, jibe aimed at the senator, signaling her disapproval of his stance without breaking professional decorum.
Social media quickly picked up on the moment, with many praising Kapombe for her tact and courage in highlighting the absurdity of Cherargei’s remarks.
Following the broadcast, several Kenyans took to online platforms to commend Kapombe, calling her “a voice of reason” in a media landscape often dominated by political spin. Her measured response resonated with viewers who were deeply disturbed by Cherargei’s comments, demonstrating how journalists can assert influence even while adhering to the rules of broadcast journalism.
The incident also reignited debates about the role of public officials in addressing human rights issues and the importance of responsible leadership. For Kapombe, the moment highlighted her commitment to ethical reporting and her ability to balance professionalism with moral clarity.
As the story continues to trend, many viewers have expressed hope that other media personalities will follow her example, using their platforms to challenge questionable political statements while maintaining credibility.
Mashirima Kapombe’s composed, yet pointed, handling of the teleprompter content has cemented her reputation as one of Kenya’s most respected news anchors.
By Nairobi