Celebrated news anchor Jeff Koinange returned to Citizen TV on Wednesday night after nearly six months off the air.
Koinange, who has been away for most of the year, has been the subject of speculation, with rumours circulating about his health and overall well-being.
He made his comeback by hosting popular guests PLO Lumumba and Dr Barrack Muluka on Jeff Koinange Live, marking a familiar return to the show's hard-hitting discussions.
During the show, Koinange made light of his absence, likening his return to that of the biblical story of Lazarus, who was raised from the afterlife by Jesus.
Jeff, walking onto the set to applause and laughter, declared, ''I’m back… like I never left. It’s great to be back. They had decided to kill me. Like, how?''
''For nearly 2,000 years, I am the first man to resurrect after Jesus,'' Koinange said amid laughter from the panellists and his co-host Ayub Adbikadir, who has been hosting the show since he left.
Despite the excitement from fans, his return also drew mixed reactions online, with some welcoming him back while others suggested he should consider extending his break.
"Oooh, my, we definitely missed you, if only you could see my mum and me clapping for you, the smiles and happiness in our faces. Welcome back, Jeff,'' one fan shared on X while welcoming the anchor.
Koinange, however, did not reveal where he had been or whether the health rumours had any truth.
Meanwhile, quick to the news was the public eye, with many online users zooming in on Koinange’s wristwatch, a Rolex Yacht-Master II, sparking conversations about its hefty price tag and symbolism, further fuelling debate around his high-profile return.
The Rolex Yacht-Master II, known for its distinctive blue bezel and luxury status, retails for approximately Ksh2.5 million to Ksh3 million, depending on the model and market.
Its appearance during the broadcast added a layer of intrigue, with some viewers interpreting it as a subtle statement of confidence and affluence following his long absence.
Koinange has hosted Jeff Koinange Live (JKL) on Citizen TV since February 2017. He also co-hosts the breakfast show on HOT 96, Royal Media Services' English radio station, alongside comedian and media personality Nick Odhiambo.
Previously, he served as CNN and CNN International’s Africa correspondent from 2001 to 2007, before joining K24 as Chief Reporter from 2007 until December 2012.
He has also worked with KTN, where Jeff Koinange Live first aired, and later served as Chief Anchor for Arise Television Ltd, based in Johannesburg.
