James Ongige Announces Voice of State


James Ongige Announces Voice of State, a Kenyan Historical Thriller Inspired by the 1982 Coup Attempt

Kenyan filmmaker James Ongige has announced his latest film, Voice of State, an independent historical thriller inspired by the events surrounding the attempted coup in Kenya on August 1, 1982. Produced under KIMC Productions and Lohkast Pictures. the film blends historical context with fictional storytelling to explore a nation gripped by uncertainty as political tensions unfold.

Originally developed under the working title Coup '82, the production was later officially renamed Voice of State to better capture the film's central themes of power, communication, and the influence of state broadcasting during times of national crisis.

Set against one of Kenya's most significant historical moments, Voice of State follows fictional characters whose lives become intertwined with the unfolding events. Through suspense, political intrigue, and personal sacrifice, the film examines the human cost of instability while presenting a cinematic interpretation inspired by history.

Written and directed by James Ongige, the project reflects his interest in telling Kenyan stories through character-driven narratives and immersive filmmaking. Rather than serving as a documentary, Voice of State is a historical thriller that uses fiction to explore the atmosphere and consequences surrounding the 1982 coup attempt.

The film stars:

  • Adrian Opiyo

  • Maxwel Thocho

  • James Junior Omare

  • Kasongo Muyangu

  • Philip Macharia

  • Alex Nyanzi

  • Felicia Debra

  • Hiram Mwangi

  • James Ongige

  • Victor Emmanuel

Production Details

Title: Voice of State

Working Title: Coup '82

Release Date: 16th July 2026

Genre: Historical Thriller

Country of Origin: Kenya

Language: English and Swahili

Written and Directed by: James Ongige

Produced by: Abraham Jalenga

Production Company(s): KIMC Productions and Lohkast Pictures

The production combines dramatic performances, period-inspired settings, and suspenseful storytelling to recreate the atmosphere of early-1980s Kenya while remaining a work of fiction. Although inspired by real historical events, the characters, dialogue, and many story elements have been created for dramatic purposes.

Voice of State marks another step in James Ongige's growing portfolio of independent films, demonstrating his commitment to telling compelling Kenyan stories through cinema while exploring themes of power, loyalty, truth, and survival.

Additional information about the film, including its release and screening plans, will be announced by the filmmakers as production progresses.

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