A new twist has emerged in a story where renowned education reporter Makori Ongechi left Citizen TV on Friday, March 12, having worked in the media house for four years.
Kenyans.co.ke spoke to sources privy to the matter and can authoritatively report that Makori was fired following reports that he had been extorting money from individuals.
In the termination letter in our possession, Makori was accused of preparing a video purportedly produced by Citizen TV, which he allegedly used to solicit money from West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo.
The video is said to have circulated widely on social media platforms. In addition, the reporter is also accused of visiting a school in pursuit of a story of students being fed expired food and also soliciting money from the management of the institution.
"You presented pictures that the police have reported had previously been used by other people to extort money from the school over similar claims of impropriety," reads an excerpt of the statement.
From the above accusations, the company stated that the reporter had violated the Employment Act, therefore, terminated his services.
Kenyans.co.ke reached out to Makori who termed the allegations as false. "That's not true," he said.
He had previously indicated that he exited the media company following misunderstandings with the leadership.
“I have had enough of frustrations from the new leadership. When I joined the company, I was on good terms with the then leaders. However, due to the misunderstandings I have had with the new crop of leadership, I have decided to leave Citizen TV," he stated.
He had also lamented that his faith posed a challenge because it was difficult for him to get off days.
“I am a Seventh Adventist Day (SDA) member and I had trouble getting off days to worship during the Sabbath. This affected me because as an SDA member I am supposed to observe the Sabbath," he added.
Makori also took his grievances on social media where he indicated that he had a vision that was cut short on the eve of his birthday.
"I had a big vision. I wanted to tell the story of a poor boy from Kisii to the world. I needed guidance. I needed direction. But instead, my vision and the aspirations of my parents were strategically cut short on the eve of my birthday!" he lamented, prompting a Twitter trend on his exit.
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