The late former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua’s father has opened up on the heartbreaking final moments of his son’s life, shedding light on his long battle with bipolar disorder and the emotional struggles he endured before his tragic passing.
Speaking with deep sorrow, Mbugua’s father revealed that his son had expressed his exhaustion and desire for peace shortly before his death.
“Bipolar is very strange because when one stabilizes, they can relapse once again. It was not his wish to be like that, we just have to accept,” he said.
“We cannot blame anyone because the hospital has CCTV everywhere, and we were able to see what transpired from the footage. I also confirmed through his writing to me, ‘Dad, I am tired. I have chosen to rest.’”
The emotional revelation painted a picture of a young man who had fought hard to reclaim his life and career but was overwhelmed by his condition.
Kimani’s father recounted how the once-bright journalist remained hopeful about returning to the media industry, often speaking about rebuilding his career and becoming one of Kenya’s best journalists.
“We used to talk, and he would give me hope, saying, ‘I hope that as I stabilize, I’ll come back to my journalism work, and I will be the best ever journalist in this country because I am young,’” he said.
He added that his greatest role as a parent was to stand by his son during the recovery journey.
“My work as a dad was only to support him to recover,” he shared.
In his statement, Mbugua’s father extended heartfelt gratitude to those who supported Kimani through his struggles, particularly when his mental health challenges became public.
“Even I thank everybody — Mike Sonko, Obinna, and every Kenyan who supported his journey,” he said.
The acknowledgment highlighted the national outpouring of empathy and solidarity that accompanied Kimani’s battle, as many Kenyans rallied around him with encouragement and financial support.
Kimani Mbugua rose to fame as a bright, articulate journalist and media personality at Citizen TV before his career was cut short by his struggle with bipolar disorder.
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