Kenyans React To The Demise Of Standard Newspaper Journalist, Naftal Makori

Standard Newspaper’s Kisumu correspondent Naftali Makori passed on early today after fighting a liver infection that he kept private for quite some time.

And as the sad news broke out, many who knew Mr. Makori, either professionally or as a personal friend have come out to mourn the lose of one of their own.

Singer and radio presenter Kay B Kevin Ombwori, who shared a room with the late Naftali back in Masinde Muliro University as undergraduate students has described Naftali as an easy going person and a down-to-earth individual.

Speaking to Ghafla, Kay B narrated his last moments with Makori saying they had a nice chat not knowing they would never see each other again.

“He was my friend, my room mate and a close confidant. I have lost a great pal,” Kay B mourned.

Makori’s fellow writer at Standard Group, Nzau ya Musau, also described the last time he met the late journalist saying:

I did the week-long induction at Standard with Naftali Makori in August 2014. On the last day of the induction, I left on an urgent assignment in Kitui n left my induction papers with Makori. I dont know what became of them n I never saw him again. RIP May he RIP.

Nation Newspaper’s Kisumu correspondent Elvis Ondieki Mwandishi also mourned the passing on of Makori, narrating the last chat he had with him. He said:

He looked somewhat beaten, though. Muttered something about someone not wishing him well since his transfer to Kisumu but, as expected, he didn’t get to the details. He valued suspense; at least on me. And time wouldn’t allow us to talk more. You know, journalists and story hunting. Parted with the usual signature, “Ukipata kitu si utaniambia?”
Who knew that that morning outside KCB Kisumu was the last I would see him alive?
Rest in peace Naftali Makori.

Others who tabled their condolences include KBC’s Junior Lollyporp John who said:

So sad to learn the death of my cousin brother and colleague in the media industry Naftal Onyari Makori of standard group based at Kisumu. Gone so soon bro! Pole sana uncle Omogaka Peter Makori and the enitre village of Nyasore. R.I.P brother.

His friends and readers were also taken aback by the sad news. This is what they had to say:

It is with deep sorrow that I learnt this morning of the passing on of a dear brother and gentleman Naftal Onyari Makori. When we talked last weekend he sounded low and tired, we agreed I call on him at Kisumu this weekend. It was not to be. I will remember Naftal through his story in the Standard newspapers three years ago,he covered a poor kid from Nyamira who would not raise school fees. He passionately followed up the story till the boy got a sponsor. He went too soon at his prime. May God protect his family. Gone before he would grace the launch of my education fund for poor needy kids. ‪#‎RIPNAFTALMAKORI‬ your spirit lives on. – Douglas Arege

So sad to learn the death of my former colleague at the Standard Group Naftal Onyari Makori who passed on today morning at Agha Khan Hospital in Kisumu. You were such a talented and prolific writer. R.I.P brother you fought a worthy course. My prayers are with your family during this time of sorrow and grief – James Onchiri Mbaka

My friend, fellow journalist and former campus mate Naftal Onyari Makori was so optimistic in his last days. He dedicated his health in God’s hands and even believed for a miracle. This morning, our good Lord called him from his hospital bed in Kisumu. He leaves behind a young family. Until his death, he was a writer with Standard and was based in Kisumu. RIP my friend. You were a great person. I know you are with the angels in heaven. – Samwel Born Maina