Unexpected Outpouring of Love for Royal Media Stars After Phone Numbers Leaked
Royal Media services Journalists
A Leak of Notice with Unexpected Reactions
While unknown individuals leaked the phone numbers of various Citizen TV news anchors and an editor online, Kenyans responded in an unexpected way. Instead of unleashing their anger, they showed solidarity.
The Trend of Telephone Numbers
The leaks confirmed a trend where phone numbers of prominent Kenyan figures, including the President, get published online. Kenyans are then encouraged to contact them in a campaign humorously titled “Salimia yeye.” However, these greetings usually turn into profanity-laced sessions where Kenyans express their frustration, curse, and warn their targets.
Targeting Media Personalities
As online attacks on the Kenyan media intensified, some figures leaked the phone numbers of top Citizen TV anchors and reporters. They hoped that Kenyans would flood them with insults and threats. But, surprisingly, a large majority of people who got hold of the contacts used the opportunity to praise the news anchors and thank them for their service to the nation.
Positive Messages for Journalists
Many Royal Media Services personalities received gracious messages from Kenyans, commending their journalistic efforts. These include Mashirima Kapombe, Yvonne Okwara, Group Editorial & Strategy Director Linus Kaikai, and News Editor Muraya Kariuki. The heartfelt messages offered support and encouragement to continue their good work.
Linus Kaikai’s Reaction
Linus Kaikai expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support. He said, “My fellow Kenyans, I am overwhelmed by your countless messages of love, kindness, and encouragement. This was certainly not the intended outcome of that early morning ‘brief’. Thank you for the very many calls, too; I spoke to a lot of amazing countrymen. Let’s keep talking, loving, and serving Kenya in the best way we can. God bless you all.”
Mashirima Kapombe’s Response
Mashirima Kapombe also showed her appreciation, writing, “I don’t think this is what they expected. Thank you for all the kind and warm messages. You all give me hope that Kenya will triumph, and we are better together; known and unknown, rich or poor, Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X. God bless you and our great country.”
Yvonne Okwara’s Gratitude
Yvonne Okwara thanked Kenyans for the greetings, saying, “What a day! Absolutely a pleasure hearing from you all today. Shukran sana kwa salamu!”
Messages of Support
One of the messages directed at Kaikai read: “Dear Linus, your number is circulating online probably shared by government-sponsored goons but know this brother, you and your team are doing a good job. When your performance is above their mediocrity and hooliganism, no amount of propaganda will ever make us hate you or harm you. Continue keeping these thugs in their rightful corner. You’re an inspiration to all of us, young or old.”
Sustained Attacks on the Media
Amid the anti-media rhetoric, posters branded “Occupy Citizen” circulated online. The media fraternity complained of sustained attacks and even abductions aimed at Kenyan journalists.
The phone number leak intended to harm Citizen TV journalists backfired spectacularly. Instead, it revealed the deep respect and support Kenyans have for these media personalities. Despite the ongoing challenges, the overwhelming messages of love and encouragement showed that Kenyans stand with their journalists, appreciating their dedication and service to the nation. This incident highlighted the power of unity and positivity in the face of adversity, demonstrating that kindness and support can triumph over malice and negativity.
