This archive report was first published on 19 July 2020.
Ezekiel Mutua Advocates for State Funeral for Late Actor Charles Bukeko ¶
Charles Bukeko, the late actor popularly known as Papa Shirandula, was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. He brought joy and laughter to many people's homes through his performances.
On July 18, 2020, Papa Shirandula passed away at the age of 58, moments after arriving at Karen Hospital in Nairobi. He had been experiencing breathing complications and had tested positive for coronavirus after traveling back from Kakamega County.
According to his family members, Papa Shirandula had isolated himself at home a week before his condition worsened. He was a father of three and was born in Mumia. He had relocated to Nairobi's Umoja estate, where he knew he was born to be an actor.
Personalities like Jalang'o have credited Papa Shirandula with opening doors for budding performers, which contributed to their success.
On July 19, 2020, Ezekiel Mutua, the Kenya Films and Classification Board boss, took to Twitter to express his condolences and suggest that Papa Shirandula deserves a state funeral. He described the late actor as a great legend who epitomized the best of the entertainment industry.
"Papa Shirandula deserves a state burial. He epitomizes the best of the entertainment industry. He brought so much joy and laughter to our homes without being vulgar," Ezekiel Mutua said.
Many Kenyans agreed with Ezekiel Mutua, stating that Papa Shirandula's legacy was proof enough of how great and celebrated a character he was. They believed he deserved to be accorded all the respect following his death.
