Kenyan news anchor Trevor Ombija has claimed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attempted to have him fired from Royal Media Services (RMS) following a heated live television interview. Ombija made the allegations during a political engagement in Nyakach Constituency, where he is seeking the parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election. He revealed that Gachagua petitioned media management after their confrontation in March 2026.
The controversy traces back to a tense March 2026 broadcast of Monday Report, during which Gachagua accused Ombija of bias and unprofessionalism. During the interview, Gachagua labeled the program a “tribal show,” prompting Ombija to clarify on air that the former Deputy President had specifically requested the interview session himself. This exchange led to Ombija's allegations that Gachagua sought his dismissal.
Ombija further alleged that his ethnic background was brought into the confrontation surrounding his job security. He stated that Gachagua's actions were motivated by their heated exchange. However, Royal Media Services Editorial Director Linus Kaikai has refuted Ombija’s claims, clarifying that no such request was made by the former Deputy President.
Kaikai emphasized that even if such a call had been placed, it would have had no impact on the newsroom’s editorial independence. Kaikai stated that he addressed the matter directly with the news anchor, who admitted to making an error. According to Kaikai, Ombija regretted his remarks and acknowledged that he didn’t think they would be picked up.
Ombija, who joined RMS in 2018, continues to balance his media career alongside his political ambitions in Kisumu County ahead of the 2027 polls. He is currently seeking the parliamentary seat in Nyakach Constituency. The incident has sparked debate about the relationship between politicians and journalists in Kenya.
The incident also raises questions about the influence of politicians on media houses and the independence of newsrooms. Kaikai's assertion that the newsroom's editorial independence would not be compromised by external pressures is seen as a reaffirmation of RMS's commitment to impartial reporting.
Ombija's allegations against Gachagua have garnered significant attention, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2027 General Election. As politicians and journalists navigate their complex relationships, incidents like this highlight the challenges of maintaining a free and independent press in Kenya.
Key points
- Trevor Ombija alleges that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua sought his firing after a heated interview in March 2026.
- Royal Media Services Editorial Director Linus Kaikai refutes Ombija’s claims, stating that no request was made by Gachagua to have Ombija fired.
- The incident raises questions about the relationship between politicians and journalists in Kenya, as well as the independence of newsrooms.
