Journalist Eric Latiff Exits Spice FM after 6 years

Latiff shared the news on social media, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Standard Group and the unwavering support from colleagues and listeners.

Reflecting on journey so far

Latiff reminisced about the launch of The Situation Room, which aired its first episode at 6 a.m. on August 20, 2019.

Joined by co-hosts CT Muga, Ndu Okoh, and Njeri Thorne, the team embarked on a bold mission to deliver four hours of uninterrupted talk during the morning commute.

“At exactly 6 a.m. on August 20, 2019, four people entered a brand-new studio and started a journey along an uncharted path,” Latiff recalled.

“When I switched on the microphones that morning, I was excited to launch yet another station, but I also had butterflies in my stomach. Would this work? Would the audience embrace four hours of non-stop talk during their busy morning commute?”

The team’s hard work, supported by producer Brian Evusa, Programmes Controller Brian Obara, and Radio General Manager Tom Japanni, turned the show into a celebrated platform for thought leaders, professionals, and influencers.

“The Situation Room has become the home of Kenya’s Biggest Conversations,” Latiff noted. “The biggest part of this show has been the audience, who tune in on radio, TV, or digital platforms. It’s humbling whenever people reach out with compliments, comments, and suggestions for the show.”

A Bittersweet Farewell

Reflecting on his time at Spice FM and his pride in the teams he collaborated with across radio, TV, and print, Latiff wrote;

“It has been a great journey building The Situation Room to what it has become. On this day, my heart is heavy as I bid kwaheri to the brilliant team at Spice FM and the Standard Group. I am grateful for the opportunity to once again be part of Kenya’s oldest private media house.”

Before this, Latiff was also instrumental in launching Family FM and Family TV, Kenya’s first 24-hour religious media house; Kameme FM, the first vernacular station; and K24, the first 24-hour news and information TV station.

Looking ahead, Latiff hinted at future ventures: “Is there room for something new? Of course, always, and I sure hope to be a part of it soon. Wish me luck; I will keep you posted.”

Latiff leaves The Situation Room in the capable hands of his co-hosts CT Muga and Ndu Okoh. Fans have flooded social media with messages of support and nostalgia, highlighting his contributions to Kenyan media.

“You raised the level of intellectual discourse and held our leaders accountable,” one fan wrote. “You changed the game.”

Another fan added, “Eric, you are the reason I went back to morning radio. You’ll be missed!”

Notable Moments

Latiff has not only been a pioneer in media but also a bold interviewer. In June 2024, he trended for posing a daring question to President William Ruto during a live interview: “Mr. President, Kenyans have sent me to ask you, ‘When will you stop lying?’”