Former KTN News anchor Michael Oyier remembered fondly by colleagues
By Winnie OnyandoThe news of the death of former KTN News anchor Michael Oyier has left colleagues and loved ones in mourning.
Oyier, who died on April 20 while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital, leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, kindness, and mentorship. He is survived by a wife and two daughters.
The media personality reportedly collapsed at his Lavington home on Wednesday, April 17, after suffering a severe headache and was subsequently taken to hospital.
Following his death, his body was taken to Lee Funeral Home where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Fellow news anchor Joy Doreen Biira paid a heartfelt tribute to Oyier, recalling their time together at KTN.
“Ah, Michael Oyier. This one has hit hard. Where do I begin?” she said.
“Whenever he reported for duty, he’d greet every single colleague we’d be on duty with for the bulletin that evening. If it meant finding them in the gallery or cafeteria, he’d look for them there.
He made sure to check on everyone before we went to the studio. What kindness. Then we’d go over how my day had been, and what challenges I was having (Coming in young and foreign, the Kenya media scene was new to me at the time).
He’d offer all the tips and advice. I’d ask the same and he shared most of it, then we’d go over the news leads together. He was meticulous as he was intentional about what he wanted to express. When he was not happy with a colleague, he’d use the most ‘counselor’ of words to say it. I much later got to learn he was an actual counselor. He was a natural.”
Biira recalled their early days at KTN, highlighting Oyier’s exceptional work ethic, kindness, and dedication to mentoring younger colleagues.
“An excellent senior colleague. A communications consultant. A friend. A father. A brother. A coach. Thank you, Mike, for everything! Biira concluded.
In a touching tribute, Rita Oyier reflected on her long friendship with Oyier.
“Good morning Michael Oyier, I hope this little letter finds you in peace,” she began. Rita fondly recalled their shared experiences and adventures, highlighting Oyier’s unwavering support, kindness, and ability to comfort those in need.
“You have truly earned your position as a man of the heart, you have held many bleeding and broken hearts, Mike,” Rita wrote, highlighting Oyier’s compassionate nature and genuine concern for others.
Betty Kyallo, who also worked with Michael, said: “Michael Oyier. One of the greats. You were such a friend, a beautiful soul—a quiet and warm giant. I will mourn and miss you. Thank you for the therapy sessions. I needed a listening ear and you were there. Thank you”.
Janet Mbugua also a former colleague added, “Just hearing the passing of Michael Oyier who I briefly worked with at KTN News in 2009 when i anchored a few bulletins with him. He has such a signature style and voice. Condolences to family, friends and colleagues and the media fraternity.”
Radio presenter Maina Kageni added: “We have lost a legend, one of the best news anchors I have ever known, a true example of dedication, discipline and encouragement!