DP Ruto, Raila pay tribute to fallen veteran journalist Hillary Ng’weno
Deputy President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga have sent their condolences messages to the family of the late veteran journalist Hillary Ng’weno who died on Wednesday.
The veteran journalist is known as a true legend of Kenyan journalism and a trailblazer who mentored many in the media fraternity.
DP Ruto mourned the late as a towering journalist who contributed to the country’s freedom and accountability through his written works.
“I join Kenyans in mourning the passing of this icon, appreciating his abundant contributions, and to comfort his family for the loss of a great man,” he said.
“He was the father of Kenyan journalism. Ng'weno's career began as a brilliant scribe, but he firmly established himself as a towering journalist and a historian of tremendous power,” he added.
According to the DP, Ng’weno pioneered robust, independent profound and rich journalism that contributed immensely to post-independence democracy and good governance.
Raila eulogized the deceased journalist for promoting press freedom and inspiring many journalists to pursue responsible journalism that enhances democracy and good governance.
“Hillary's work played a leading role in promoting press freedom in Kenya and thus helping to expand the country's democratic space. His example and mentorship paved the way for dozens of you journalists who have followed in his footsteps to bring us the news, we so value today,” he said.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka also sent his condolences to the family saying the deceased was an excellent journalist.
“Hilary Ng’weno will be remembered as a pioneer in independent broadcasting. He was a journalist par excellence who greatly contributed to the growth of Kenya journalism in every aspect. My condolences go to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace,” Kalonzo said.
Ng’weno died aged 83 years after a long illness.
He was born in Nairobi where his father was a train driver. They lived in railways quarters.
He schooled at Mang’u High School and later joined Harvard University where he pursued nuclear physics. He was the first Kenyan to join Harvard.
He was also the first African editor-in-chief of the Nation newspaper after Kenya’s independence.
He also established his own media houses, though he sold them, where he advanced responsible journalism.
He was married to a French wife Fleur Grandjouan with whom he has two daughters Amolo and Bettina
