Former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua has tragically passed away after reportedly taking his own life at a rehabilitation centre in Mombasa. The heartbreaking incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, October 14, leaving his family and friends devastated. Before his death, Kimani sent an emotional message to his father, Mr. Dedan Kimathi, expressing that he was “tired of everything,” a statement that now stands as his final goodbye.
Speaking in deep sorrow, Mr. Kimathi described the loss as unbearable, revealing that his son was not only his firstborn but also a gifted and intelligent young man whose future had once been full of promise. He confirmed that the family had viewed CCTV footage and reviewed a note left by Kimani. While the note did not explicitly mention suicide, it contained emotional farewell words that suggested he was preparing to end his life.
Kimani had previously worked for NTV and Citizen TV, where he built a reputation as a talented and passionate journalist. However, in recent years, he had been battling bipolar disorder and substance abuse. According to his father, Kimani had shown significant progress in recovery but later relapsed after reconnecting with friends who negatively influenced him. Despite these struggles, Mr. Kimathi noted that their conversations often ended on a hopeful note, as Kimani tried to remain positive about life.
The grieving father recalled that beyond being parent and child, the two shared a deep friendship. “We supported each other through everything,” he said emotionally. Adding to the pain, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko had recently offered Kimani a job opportunity — a sign that better days seemed to lie ahead before tragedy struck.
The bereaved family has since accepted the painful reality and is now making burial arrangements. Mr. Kimathi expressed their faith in God’s will, saying they have chosen to find peace in the midst of heartbreak as they prepare to lay their beloved son to rest.
By Creatorhub