Jeff Koinange Narrates How Controversial Interview With Miguna Miguna Led Him to Quit KTN

Jeff Koinange Narrates How Controversial Interview With Miguna Miguna Led Him to Quit KTN

Veteran Kenyan journalist Jeff Koinange has opened up about the defining moment that led to his departure from KTN, linking his exit to a heated live television interview that sparked internal concerns at the station.

Speaking during a recent podcast, Koinange recounted how a high-profile interview involving lawyer and political activist Miguna Miguna and Esther Passaris escalated unexpectedly, ultimately triggering a fallout with management.

According to the seasoned anchor, the incident occurred during his time hosting the widely followed “KTN Bench” programme, which had built a strong audience due to its candid and often confrontational discussions.

“People loved the KTN bench up until probably the last interview with the man, Miguna Miguna. Right next to Miguna Miguna was Esther Passaris,” Koinange recalled.

He explained that the conversation quickly turned tense, with Miguna directing sharp criticism at Passaris during the live broadcast, creating a moment that drew mixed reactions from viewers and station executives.

“He just went off on her, and KTN responded and said that was not good, they said it was bad, and I had to pack up my bags and move to Citizen TV,” he stated.

The incident marked a turning point in Koinange’s career, leading to his exit from KTN and eventual move to Citizen TV, where he went on to launch the now-popular “JKLive” show.

Since its debut, JKLive has grown into one of Kenya’s longest-running prime-time talk shows, known for hosting influential figures across politics, business, and global affairs. Reflecting on his journey, Koinange noted that nearly eight years later, he continues to anchor the programme, crediting consistency and audience trust for its success.

Beyond the KTN episode, Koinange also shared insights into another lesser-known chapter of his career involving an international media venture. He revealed that he once relocated to the United Kingdom after being invited by a colleague to help launch Arise News, a network based in London.

However, the opportunity did not unfold as expected, as financial challenges affected operations early on.

“I got a job from a Nigerian friend of mine who lives in Nigeria, and he said, ‘Look, I am starting a network.’ But I did not get paid for three months, and I decided to go home,” Koinange said.

The experience prompted his return to Kenya, where he resumed his broadcasting career and later established himself as one of the country’s most recognisable media personalities.

Koinange also reflected on the highlights of his journalism career, particularly his interactions with global leaders, which he described as a privilege built on trust and professionalism.

Among the notable figures he has interviewed are Paul Kagame, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, and the late South African icon Nelson Mandela.

He emphasised that access to such high-profile individuals is often rooted in credibility and the ability to handle sensitive conversations responsibly.

Media analysts note that Koinange’s reflections offer a glimpse into the pressures faced by journalists in live broadcast environments, where editorial decisions and real-time developments can have far-reaching professional consequences.

The account also highlights the evolving nature of Kenya’s media industry, where competition, audience expectations, and editorial standards continue to shape careers and programming.

As Koinange continues his tenure at Citizen TV, his story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable moments that can redefine a journalist’s path, while also underscoring the resilience required to navigate the fast-paced world of broadcast media.

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Jeff Koinange Narrates How Controversial Interview With Miguna Miguna Led Him to Quit KTN