Jacky Vike, widely known for her role as Awinja, recently shared her emotional reflections on the death of her close friend and co-star, Papa Shirandula. The renowned actor, whose real name was Charles Bukeko, passed away after contracting COVID-19, a loss that deeply affected those who knew him, especially during the time of the pandemic.
In an emotional interview, Vike opened up about the rapid series of events surrounding Papa’s death and how it was handled. According to Vike, the circumstances surrounding Papa’s passing were heart-wrenching, as he was buried within 48 hours due to COVID-19 restrictions, leaving little time for loved ones and colleagues to process the loss. She expressed that, despite his legendary status, Papa was rushed through a quick burial, depriving those close to him of the opportunity to grieve properly or to hold a proper farewell.
Vike recounted the shocking moments leading up to his death. She had been speaking to a colleague on the phone when she learned that Papa was in the hospital. Initially, Vike didn’t suspect anything serious. However, a few hours later, she received a call from Jackline Nyaminde, known as Wilbroda on their popular TV show, who delivered the devastating news that Papa had passed away. The news was so shocking that Vike initially dismissed it as a joke. She quickly rushed to the hospital with fellow colleague Jalang’o, hoping to see Papa’s body and confirm the reality of the situation, but the doctors refused to allow them access. This added to the pain, as Vike couldn’t understand how something so sudden and tragic could have happened to someone so beloved.
During the funeral, the atmosphere was hurried and tense. Health officials and other authorities rushed the burial process, ensuring that everything was done swiftly in accordance with COVID-19 protocols. The entire experience felt rushed and deprived Vike and the other mourners of a chance to properly mourn the loss of their dear friend and colleague. She lamented that Papa’s body was fully wrapped in the casket, leaving no space for any emotional closure.
Vike further revealed that she and her colleagues were left in shock as they had just been working together before the tragedy struck. She expressed regret and heartbreak, especially because she believed Papa could have been saved if only the proper measures had been taken in time. Her voice cracked with emotion as she recounted how difficult it was to come to terms with his passing, especially because there had been no time to prepare for such a sudden loss.
Despite the grief, Vike took a moment to reflect on the positive impact Papa had on her life. She revealed that when she was first approached to play the role of Awinja, she was hesitant, believing that the role of a house help might be too shallow for her. However, Papa insisted she was the perfect fit for the role, and her career changed forever after accepting the part. Vike was grateful for the opportunity, which not only transformed her career but also allowed her to connect with a wider audience.
As Vike shared her thoughts on social media, many of her followers expressed sympathy and understanding. Several fans shared their own experiences of losing loved ones during the pandemic, revealing how the rapid pace of burials and restrictions during that time had left them with lingering trauma. The pain of losing Papa Shirandula was still deeply felt by his colleagues and fans, with many taking to social media to express their sadness and honor his memory.
