MOMBASA, Kenya—Former Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that he had died, assuring Kenyans that he is alive and in good health.
Balala addressed the reports after messages of concern and condolence began circulating online, with some social media posts claiming that the former Cabinet Secretary had died after allegedly battling prostate cancer.
However, Balala came out to refute the reports, saying the information circulating about his health was misleading and unfounded.
“I am well and in good spirits. I am aware of the misleading information that has been circulating, but I want to assure everyone that it is unfounded,” Balala said in a statement shared on social media.
He thanked friends, colleagues and members of the public who had reached out to check on his wellbeing, while also expressing gratitude to God for his protection.
“Hasbunallahu wa ni‘mal wakeel. I appreciate the concern and kind thoughts from friends and colleagues,” he added.
The former Mvita MP’s clarification came after a purported news graphic circulated online, triggering speculation and concern among Kenyans.
Reports on Sunday indicated that the claims had gained traction on social media before Balala personally intervened to set the record straight. The former CS also shared a selfie on Instagram as he reassured the public that he was well.
Balala, a prominent figure in Kenya’s tourism sector, served as Tourism Minister between 2008 and 2012 before returning to the docket as Cabinet Secretary, a position he held until 2022.
He has in recent years maintained a relatively low public profile after leaving government, although he remains active in the international tourism sector.
The latest incident has once again highlighted how quickly unverified reports concerning the health or death of prominent public figures can spread through social media before they are independently verified.
Balala’s statement effectively puts to rest the reports of his alleged death, with the former Cabinet Secretary confirming that he remains alive and in good spirits.
