This archive report was first published on 12 November 2019.
Eric Omondi Reveals Late Comedian Njenga Mswahili Battled Depression for Three Years ¶
Comedian Eric Omondi has opened up about the troubled life of late Churchill show comedian Njenga Mswahili, who was found dead on Thursday, November 7, in Ndonyo Market, Dagoretti South, after allegedly being hit by a train.
According to Omondi, Mswahili was battling depression for three years and had sought help on several occasions, but no one assisted him. The comedian revealed this in an interview with Milele FM, where he shared his experiences with Mswahili.
"One thing I have learnt from Njenga Mswahili, there was a time he was not okay. Actually let me say for like three years. The first bit he tried to seek help. He talked to me three or four times and I helped a little," Omondi said.
He added that Mswahili was born again and started preaching, but later struggled with depression again, and was even arrested for shoplifting. Omondi also revealed that he met Mswahili at the former Nakumatt Junction, where he told him that he was not doing well and took a few things, which Omondi paid for.
However, a month later, Omondi heard that Mswahili had been arrested for shoplifting. He also blamed himself for assuming that everything would be alright for the deceased, as men are expected to keep trying.
"I also blame myself for assuming he'll be alright especially due to the natural habit of assuming men can battle themselves out of any situation," Omondi added.
He also revealed that individuals in the public limelight often battled serious depression on their own in fear of judgment, and that having a mentor to help things could be easy.
Although the exact cause of death of the former Churchill show comedian was not immediately clear, it was alleged that the deceased was going through a rough time in his life and may have decided to end it.
