Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko made a stunning and painful admission during the burial ceremony of the late journalist Kimani Mbugua in Maragua, Murang’a County, revealing that his own daughter, Saumu Mbuvi, has suffered from the same mental health condition.
Sonko’s admission came as he addressed mourners about the importance of mental health awareness, triggered by Mbugua’s tragic death after a long battle with mental illness.
A Father Shares His Painful Truth
Speaking with emotion, Sonko sought to destigmatize the illness, stating that hardship affects everyone, regardless of wealth. He explicitly confirmed that his daughter, Saumu Mbuvi, suffers from a condition described as bipolar and general mental health issues.
“The rich also cry, we also suffer in silence. To show Kimani Mbugua, Conjestina Achieng, and others that this disease of bipolar and mental illness comes from God, my own daughter Saumu Mbuvi is suffering from the same condition,” Sonko revealed.
The former Governor explained his deliberate decision to treat Saumu locally, opting against taking her abroad to places like the US, London, or India, despite having the financial means. Instead, he took her to Mama Amina’s rehabilitation centre in Mombasa to be treated alongside other patients, including the late Mbugua and boxer Conjestina Achieng.
Sonko clarified his choice: “Mimi napenda kulia na maskini sana [I love to cry with the poor]. I wanted my family’s experience to be seen by the other patients. They could see that we were also going through similar struggles and not feel that they had been ‘dumped’ there.” He concluded with gratitude, adding, “I thank God my daughter alipona [recovered].”
Sonko’s Commitment to Philanthropy
Serving as the President of Good Deeds in Kenya, Sonko detailed his involvement in helping the late journalist. He recalled that media personality Oga Obinna reached out to him for assistance with several cases, including Kimani Mbugua.
Sonko took charge, arranging for Mbugua and his father to be flown from Mathare Mental Hospital to Mombasa for rehabilitation. He emphasized his commitment to thorough follow-up, often visiting Mbugua and other patients, like Conjestina, up to three times a month, underscoring his dedication to philanthropy.
By Ghafla