PHUTI MOSOMANE
RENOWNED author, broadcaster and journalist Eusebius McKaiser tragically passed away on Wednesday at the age of 45 after experiencing a suspected epileptic seizure.
Known for his fearless and straightforward political commentary, McKaiser left an indelible mark on the media landscape.
His unique ability to engage in frank discussions garnered him a dedicated following and made him a prominent figure in the media industry.
The news of his untimely demise spread rapidly, prompting heartfelt tributes from various individuals and organizations.
Talk Radio 702 expressed their deep sadness in a tweet, acknowledging McKaiser’s significant contributions during his time as a presenter on their platform.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of renowned journalist and former 702 presenter Eusebius McKaiser. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his loved ones during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,” Radio 702 tweeted.
Herman Mashaba, leader of ActionSA, was shaken by McKaiser’s passing.
Recalling their recent encounter at a breakfast session characterized by stimulating debates, Mashaba highlighted McKaiser’s intellectual prowess and his potential to effect positive change in the country.
“He recently attended one of my breakfast sessions and as usual the debates were robust and intellectually stimulating. He was someone I knew would play a vital role in fixing this country. May he rest in peace,” said Mashaba.
The Democratic Alliance has also expressed their heartfelt condolences to McKaiser’s family and friends. Recognizing his role as a political analyst and broadcaster, the party said that their thoughts and prayers are with those closest to him during this difficult time.
“The DA extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of political analyst and broadcaster, Eusebius McKaiser. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time. Eusebius will be remembered for his robust political commentary,” the party said in a tweet.
Following his time as a journalist, he worked as an associate consultant at McKinsey & Company. By 2012, he held positions as a political and social analyst at the Wits Centre for Ethics and the University of Johannesburg Centre for the Study of Democracy.
McKaiser’s radio journey began with a weekly late-night talk show called Politics and Morality on Radio 702.
He then hosted the current affairs program Interface on SABC 3 until 2011. Subsequently, he anchored the Talk@9 show on Radio 702 during weeknights.
In June 2013, when Power FM was launched, McKaiser became the host of Power Talk, a three-hour morning talk show airing on weekdays.
However, in October 2014, he departed from Power FM due to unresolved disagreements with the station. Nevertheless, he returned to Radio 702 in July 2016, taking over the weekday morning talk slot previously hosted by Redi Thlabi.
In June 2020, McKaiser decided to part ways with Radio 702 because he felt the station did not allocate sufficient resources for his show’s production.
In recent days, he hosted a podcast titled “In the Ring” and an Exclusive Books show on YouTube called “Cover to Cover,” focusing on discussions about books.
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