Newzroom Afrika’s Aldrin Sampear makes comeback

by Sergio Miller

Newzroom Afrika news anchor Aldrin Sampear has made his return to television screens following his month-long suspension. 

Last month, the respected journalist went viral on social media platforms after being involved in a verbal dispute in an act of road rage, following an incident in which a 20-year-old student, Laricia Augusto, swerved her vehicle into his. Video footage showed the broadcaster later approaching the young motorist, and in a state of anger, demanding that she take responsibility for her actions. 

Laricia later accused Adlrin of being physically aggressive during their heated interaction, which later caused him to be placed on leave.  

His employer, Newzroom Afrika, later shared a statement highlighting that they take these accusations seriously and have decided to place him on leave while an internal review is conducted. 

Meanwhile, he recently returned to screens and addressed the matter while offering an apology for his behaviour. 

“On the 17th April, I was involved in a traffic incident which resulted in a confrontation between me and another driver. Having had time to reflect on these events, I want to take full responsibility for my actions.  

“Although I have not assaulted the other driver, I believe that I should have been more composed and found a way to de-escalate the situation, and I fell short of the standards I hold myself to. For that, I want to express my regret and sincere apologies to our viewers, my colleagues here at Newzroom Afrika, and the management. I have worked really hard to make sense of this experience and the root cause of my response. I hope that through my actions from now on, to rebuild the trust and the confidence placed in me as I continue on this journey to do better… I am really sorry.” 

Also see:Newzroom Afrika anchor on immediate leave after road rage incident