Radio Stars Trade Barbs After Diblo Kaberia Death

The death of veteran Swahili football commentator Diblo Kaberia has sparked emotional reactions and sharp exchanges among radio personalities and football fans online.

Diblo, also known as “El Mago,” died on Sunday, May 24, 2026, after battling illness. His death left many Kenyans mourning the loss of one of the country’s most popular football commentators.

Following his passing, veteran commentator Fred Arocho made emotional remarks accusing some unnamed individuals of abandoning Diblo during his difficult moments.

In an emotional statement, Arocho claimed that Diblo suffered for many years during his radio career and did not receive enough support when he needed help for surgery.

“Rafiki yangu alikufa juu ya mateso. Mimi kama Arocho si mnafiki. Kuna wale waliotambulika juu ya Diblo Kaberia, lakini wakati aliwai wahitaji hawakutokea,” Arocho said.

He also warned some people against attending the burial, saying he would later expose those he believes failed the late commentator.

Arocho further mourned his longtime colleague by writing,“My brother, confidant & former workmate Diblo Kaberia Elmago is dead. A sad day indeed.”

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Fellow Journalists Respond

The remarks quickly triggered reactions from fellow sports journalists and radio presenters, with some defending the industry against claims of neglect.

Sports journalist Mathew Ottamax criticized Arocho’s statements, saying grief should not be used to settle personal scores.

“It’s perfectly healthy to grieve, but it’s wrong to exploit other people’s sombre period for personal gain or to settle personal scores,” Ottamax wrote.

He added that some colleagues had worked hard behind the scenes to support Diblo during his illness.

“Personally, I put in extra pro bono hours and days to cover for my Swahili commentary tutor and role model, and to ensure he lost no paycheck,” he said.

Ottamax also defended those working with Diblo, saying it was unfair to suggest the late commentator had been abandoned throughout his 17-year career.

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Mixed Reactions Online After Diblo Kaberia Death

The exchange has sparked debate online, with football fans sharing different opinions over the matter.

Some supported Arocho’s emotional reaction, while others felt the accusations came at the wrong time.

“If you claim that Diblo was your innermost friend and all has been passing and enduring all this time when he was alive you could have said earlier,” wrote Vincent Omwansa.

Another fan, Moses Musa, commented,“You have the right information but at the wrong time. Don’t use such an opportunity to challenge your adversary.”

Peter,“It’s African culture, one can travel from abroad to attend burial, but one cannot cross the road to offer support in the time one need,” he wrote.

Tributes Continue

Despite the controversy, tributes continue to pour in from Kenya’s sports and media industry.

Veteran journalist Joe Gidi described Diblo as a legendary commentator whose voice entertained football fans across the country.

“His voice, passion, and mastery of football commentary touched and entertained countless listeners across the country,” Gidi said.

Diblo will be buried in Maua, Meru County, as family, friends, colleagues, and fans prepare to give him a final send-off.

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Radio Jambo Sports Journalist Diblo Kaberia
PHOTO/Nairobi Leo