President William Ruto has led Kenyans in mourning the death of Sammy Lui Wang’ondu, a veteran broadcaster and former Director of State Functions, whose commanding yet calm voice defined Kenya’s national events for decades.
Lui passed away on Thursday, October 23, at his home in Subukia, Nakuru County, according to family reports. His death marks the end of an era for a man whose voice became synonymous with presidential functions, national holidays, and major state ceremonies across multiple administrations.
In a message of condolence, President Ruto described Lui as “a dedicated public servant, a pioneer journalist, and a respected voice of the nation whose professionalism and service left an enduring legacy.”
“From his early days as one of Kenya’s pioneer journalists at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation to his time at the Presidential Press Service, and later as Director of State Events, his powerful voice was the familiar soundtrack to Kenyans,” said the President.
Ruto added that Lui’s contribution to Kenya’s media and public communications would be remembered for generations. “His huge contribution to our media industry will not be forgotten. Our condolences to the family, friends, and the media fraternity. Rest in peace, Lui.”
Lui’s death was confirmed by his son, Chris Wang’ondu, who said the family was deeply saddened but proud of his father’s remarkable career and humility. Details about the cause of death remain undisclosed.
Lui began his broadcasting journey at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), then known as the Voice of Kenya (VoK), during the formative years of Kenya’s media industry. Over the years, he rose to become one of the country’s most trusted voices, earning respect for his professionalism, precision, and dedication to national service.
As the nation mourns, Lui is remembered not only for his iconic voice but also for the grace, discipline, and patriotism he brought to every event he led. His legacy as Kenya’s voice of state functions will live on for generations to come.
