“I am grateful for the opportunity” – Eric Latiff Quits Spice FM and Standard Group
Eric Latiff, host of The Situation Room on Spice FM, has announced his departure from Standard Group in an emotional farewell on Monday, January 6, 2025.
Reflecting on his journey, Latiff reminisced about the station’s early days alongside his co-hosts CT Muga, Ndu Okoh, and Njeri Thorne, when they launched the show on August 20, 2019.
“On this 6th day of January 2025, my heart is heavy as I bid kwaheri (goodbye) to the brilliant team of colleagues at Spice FM and the Standard Group,” he wrote.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to once again be a part of Kenya’s oldest private media house, and I am proud of the teams that I leave behind in radio, TV, and print.”
The Early Days of Spice FM
Latiff shared his initial jitters as he prepared to launch The Situation Room, an unconventional radio show airing on weekdays from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
“At exactly 6:00 AM on August 20, 2019, four people entered a brand new studio and started a journey along an uncharted path,” he recalled.
“When I switched on the four microphones that morning, I was excited at launching yet another station, but I also had butterflies in my stomach. Would this work? Would the audience embrace four hours of non-stop talk during their busy morning commute?”
Alongside his co-hosts, Latiff credited the success of the show to the efforts of producer Brian Evusa, Programme Controller Brian, and Radio General Manager Tom Japanni.
“It has been a great journey building The Situation Room to what it has become, and we have very many people to thank, not least the team of producers, marketing, commercial, technical, and other colleagues,” he added.
Kenya’s Biggest Conversations
Latiff highlighted the impact of The Situation Room in fostering dialogue and hosting thought leaders, community influencers, professionals, and public officials.
“The Situation Room has become the home of Kenya’s Biggest Conversations and continues to host many thought leaders, community influencers, different professionals, and duty bearers,” he said.
A Career of Firsts
Latiff also reflected on his broader contributions to Kenya’s media landscape, including his involvement in launching Kameme FM, the country’s first vernacular radio station, and K24, the first 24-hour news and information TV station. He was also part of the launch of Family TV and Family Radio, Kenya’s first 24-hour religious media house.
Looking Ahead
As for the future, Latiff remains optimistic and open to new opportunities.
“Is there room for something new? Of course, always, and I sure hope to be a part of it soon. Wish me luck, I will keep you posted,” he concluded.
Latiff’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter at Spice FM, where he played a pivotal role in shaping one of Kenya’s most engaging radio platforms.
