Standard Group Limited scribe Joseph Masha buried amid calls for thorough probe

Joseph Masha, a Standard Group Correspondent based in Kilifi County. Masha was laid to rest yesterday on the outskirts of Kilifi town in an emotional ceremony attended by Governor Amason Kingi and Senator Stewart Madzayo. (PHOTO: COURTESY)

Standard Group reporter Joseph Masha was laid to rest yesterday on the outskirts of Kilifi town in an emotional ceremony attended by Governor Amason Kingi and Senator Stewart Madzayo.

The two leaders called for thorough and conclusive investigations into the journalist’s sudden death.

On Friday, pathologists performed an autopsy on the body, but were unable to determine the cause of death, pending toxicology analysis of tissues. Masha who died aged 51 had worked for The Standard since 2001 and was based in Kilifi.

He collapsed in his house on September 3 and was rushed to Kilifi County Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. He had complained of stomach pains the day before.

Thousands of mourners turned up at Kolongoni village, Kilifi County, to pay their last respects.

Kingi urged the Criminal Investigation Department to carry out thorough investigations into the death.

“There is time for everything. A time to be born and a time to die, but Masha’s death has shocked many and that is why we want to know the true cause of his death to avoid speculations,” said the governor.

He called for patience to allow police to carry out comprehensive investigations.

“Prominent Kenyans have died before under mysterious circumstances and none of their investigations have ever been made public. However, we want to know if Masha died a natural death or someone somewhere had an hand in it,” he said. Senator Madzayo called on the government to beef up security as the country gears towards the General Election.

“We are heading towards the elections and politicians are ready to do anything possible to retain or win seats and that is why we are calling on the government to improve security,” said Madzayo.

Media representative Maureen Mudi read a joint statement, saying journalists will not relent or be intimidated when discharging their duties. She urged media practitioners to remain dedicated to duty and exhibit courage and professionalism.