Philip Etale wants Leonard Mambo Mbotela buried at Uhuru Gardens
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Director of Communication Philip Etale has implored the government to create a space at Uhuru Gardens and bury veteran journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela there.
According to Etale, Mbotela has a rich legacy in Kenya’s broadcast industry and should not be buried at the Lang’ata Cemetery as scheduled.
“Fellow Kenyans, the Late Leonard Mambo Mbotela will go down into the annals of our Nation’s history as a hero and a man with a rich legacy. Therefore, I would like to join those proposing that instead of laying him to rest at Lang’ata Cemetery, the government should honor him by creating space at Uhuru Gardens and have him buried there. This will be very honourable to this great son of the soil,” Etale stated on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
The same sentiments were shared by veteran journalist Fred Ombachi Machoka, who says that the government should establish a Heroes Corner where the country’s heroes should be buried.
“This country requires a Heroes Corner for the burial of our Mashujaa if we really value them,” he stated.
“Rest in perfect peace, big brother, mentor, legend, and friend Mzee Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Because of you and other legends who have also transitioned, we happen to be. You, big brother, shaped the world of broadcasting. To Mama Alice & the entire Mbotela family, thank you for lending us Mzee for over 50 years, we know we had more of him than you did. May the Almighty God give you peace that surpasses all human understanding at this hour. Poleni sana. Your legacy lives on.”
Mbotela’s death
Mbotela, whose death was confirmed on Friday, February 7, 2025, has been widely mourned as a legend and role model.
He was described as a patriot and a great Kenyan by the retired president Uhuru Kenyatta.
“Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has mourned veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela, describing him as a legendary media personality whose contribution to the country’s media industry will forever be cherished by all citizens,” a statement posted on X on Friday, February 7, 2025, read.
“The (former) Head of State said the late Mambo Mbotela, who passed on at a Nairobi hospital while undergoing treatment, will be remembered for his professionalism, patriotism, and his ever-entertaining and educative programmes, which sought to teach society values that build strong families and a great nation.”
Mbotela left behind a wife, Alice, and three children: Aida, Jimmy, and George.
Mbotela gained fame for his iconic show ‘Jee Huu ni Ungwana TV? which addressed issues of social etiquette and manners.
He had a long and distinguished career in Kenyan media, earning admiration for his ability to connect with audiences across generations and has graced television screens in a career spanning more than five decades.
