NTV's Salim Swaleh Children Surprise Viewers During Broadcast

NTV viewers were caught by surprise on Monday, May 25 after anchor Salim Swaleh's children appeared on air with a special message.

The station had been running Eid ul Fitr themed content as Muslims faithful around the world celebrated the holiday, which marks the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadhan.

Salim Swaleh was part of a team steering a special segment, dubbed Eid Mubarak Special, which ran after the 1 p.m news bulletin.

Viewers had been urged to send their wishes via Whatsapp to have them featured, but it was Swaleh's daughters who stole the show with their Eid Mubarak message.

"Eid Mubarak to all Muslims. We wish our mum Sharrifa Salim and our dad Salim Swaleh a happy Eid Mubarak," the visibly excited children stated.

If the couch in the video looked familiar, it's because Swaleh has previously presented news bulletins from home while sitting on the couch due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

On Friday, May 9, for instance, he caught the attention of Kenyans online after presenting a bulletin wearing only a pair of his shorts on his lower body, with a shirt and tie above.

This year, Muslims in Kenya have celebrated Eid ul Fitr under unfamiliar circumstances due to the global pandemic that has disrupted lives.

Large prayer gatherings at various grounds and mosques, for example, did not take place as witnessed in past years, due to compliance with government directives meant to curb the spread of the virus.

The excitement that characterises the streets on Eid ul Fitr was also subdued as many Muslims were spending time at home.

In addition, restrictions on movement and travel have limited the ability of many Muslims to celebrate the day with friends and family.

Sheikh Juma Ngao, Chairman of the Kenya Muslims National Advisory Council (KEMNAC), however, also noted that it had helped people to connect with their families.

"People had been disconnected from their families. They are at home with their wives, children, families. This has increased the love among people in their homes.

"Some people leave in the morning for work and come back at night. Others leave for the whole month, but now people are spending time at home with their families," Ngao stated.

Muslims faithfuls attending a Friday prayer at the Jamia Mosque.
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Jamia Mosque