• Raila said Tinina left an indelible mark during her early days in journalism.
• "In times of loss, we reflect on the profound impact individuals like Rita Tinina have had."
Image: COLLINS APUDO/File
Azimio leader Raila Odinga has said that the death of journalist Rita Tinina leaves a void in the media industry in Kenya.
In his message of condolence to the family, Raila said Tinina left an indelible mark during her early days in journalism.
He added that while she is no more, her legacy of storytelling and integrity will continue to live.
The former Prime Minister prayed God's comfort and strength to Tinina's family, friends and colleagues as they come to terms with her death.
"In times of loss, we reflect on the profound impact individuals like Rita Tinina have had. From her earliest days at NTV, Rita's dedication to journalism left an indelible mark on Kenya's media landscape.
"Her passing leaves a void in the industry, yet her legacy of storytelling and integrity will endure. My heartfelt condolences go out to her loved ones and colleagues. May God grant them strength and fortitude," Raila said.
The veteran journalist was found dead in her room by her house girl.
Police said Tinina, 46, was found dead in her house along Laikipia Road in Kileleshwa, Nairobi on Sunday, March 17 in the morning.
She was supposed to be on duty at NTV where she worked as an Output Producer but failed to report. This prompted the managers at her place of work to send her colleague to the house where the body was found.
The house girl told police she woke up as usual and went on with her chores but realised Tinina was not awake as earlier planned.
Tinina was to wake up by 8 am and prepare for work as she was to produce the 1 pm bulletin. But she had not woken up by 9 am which prompted the househelp to knock at her bedroom with no response.
Luckily, Tinina had not locked the door from inside. The house girl called her but there was no response. By then, Tinina’s eight-year-old girl was watching television in the living room.
The house girl said she touched Tinina and realised she was unresponsive. She then called one of the family friends who was with Tinina last on Saturday night.
The body was moved to the mortuary pending autopsy.