National

Journalist Rita Tinina died of severe pneumonia - postmortem

By Barack Oduor | Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Family spokesperson Timothy Njaga says they are content with the procedure but need privacy.

Celebrated journalist Rita Tinina died of severe pneumonia, the family has announced after an autopsy that followed her death on Sunday.

Tinina, a respected figure in the media fraternity, was found dead in her apartment in Kileleshwa, Nairobi, on Sunday.

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Speaking at the Umash Funeral Home in Nairobi on Tuesday, family spokesperson Timothy Njaga said the family was content with the procedure by government pathologist Peter Ndegwa, as well as their designated pathologist, which they witnessed.

He said the postmortem brought them some closure but reiterated the family's plea for privacy.

"We should remember that a family is affected," he said, adding, "We thank the media fraternity for the good words about our sister and friend."

The sentiment of support from the media fraternity was palpable during the autopsy, with notable figures such as Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) President Zubeida Kananu and Kenya Parliamentary Journalists Association Chairman Duncan Khaemba present.

A police report on Sunday said Tinina, 46, suffered from epilepsy and was nursing a five-day-old fever, according to the health history given by her sister, Helen Silau Njaga.

Her death has left a void in the journalism community, with colleagues mourning the loss of a talented and dedicated professional.

In a statement, the KEG said Tinina showcased talent and dedication, excelling as a TV reporter and later as an editor.

"Her contributions were invaluable and have left a lasting impact on the media landscape," it said.

Tinina has also been eulogised by people including President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga as a beacon of journalistic excellence, whose impactful stories and remarkable reporting skills kept them tuned to the news.

Her career started at NTV, where she honed her skills before moving to the Standard Media Group in December 2002. She served as a senior political affairs reporter at KTN and returned to NTV last October, taking up the role of output producer for broadcast platforms.