Jeff Koinange Makes Surprise Return to Citizen TV After Weeks of Speculation

Veteran broadcaster Jeff Koinange officially returned to Citizen TV on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, ending weeks of public speculation over his prolonged absence from the screen.

Koinange had not hosted his signature show, Jeff Koinange Live (JKL), since early October. During his break, the Wednesday night programme continued under his name but featured stand-in anchors, including Ayub Abdikadir, prompting questions about his whereabouts.

The silence around his absence fuelled a wave of rumours online, with some false claims alleging the celebrated journalist had died. In November, social media personality Xtian Dela debunked the hoax by sharing WhatsApp screenshots of a recent conversation with Koinange, confirming he was alive. Radio presenter Maina Kageni also posted a video alongside Koinange in late October, telling viewers the anchor would return soon.

A Dramatic On-Air Comeback

Koinange’s return was unveiled live during the 9 p.m. news. Abdikadir teased the moment with the line:
“Today we reconstitute the three letters that follow each other on the keyboard: J-K-L…”
Seconds later, Koinange walked into the studio to applause from the newsroom.

The pair exchanged a warm embrace as Koinange laughed and quipped, “Walikuwa wameniuwa” (They had killed me).
“I’m back, as if I never left,” he added.

In a playful nod to the show’s tradition, Abdikadir tested the iconic JKL fire extinguisher—spraying foam to confirm it still worked—before formally handing back the set.

That night’s comeback episode featured PLO Lumumba and Barrack Muluka. At one point, Koinange directly addressed the rumours, joking: “News of my death has been exaggerated. For 2,000 years, no one has risen from the dead.”
He lifted a T-shirt labelled “Lazarus” and thanked viewers for their messages during his break.

Colleagues and Fans Celebrate His Return

Citizen TV colleagues quickly shared their excitement online.
Mashirima Kapombe posted photos embracing Koinange, writing: “Welcome back, Jeff! We had really missed you.”
Lulu Hassan added: “The king is back! Welcome home Jeff Koinange.”
Waihiga Mwaura remarked: “JKL is complete again.”

Viewers also expressed relief and nostalgia:

• @ItsMutai: “Finally! I stopped watching Citizen at 9 p.m. when Jeff wasn’t there. Welcome back.”

• @NyamburaKE: “The only show where the letters follow each other on the keyboard is back with its owner. Karibu sana.”

Some admitted they reduced or entirely paused watching the station during his break.

Although Citizen TV has not issued an official explanation, sources within Royal Media Services indicated that Koinange’s absence was a planned sabbatical.

He has now resumed his regular hosting duties, with the next episode of Jeff Koinange Live set for Wednesday, December 17, 2025.