The late former Citizen TV journalist, Kimani Mbugua, believed he would recover from bipolar disorder and return to journalism stronger than ever, his father, Dedan Kimathi, has revealed.
Before taking his own life at a rehabilitation centre in Mombasa, the 29-year-old journalist left behind a heartfelt note expressing hope that he would heal and make a triumphant comeback to the newsroom.
“He wrote to me, ‘Dad, I’m tired. I have chosen to rest. Today I do,’” Kimathi said tearfully on Tuesday as the family collected his son’s body from the mortuary in Mombasa.
Kimani’s Struggles and Hope for a Comeback
Kimathi described his son as a brave fighter who battled mental illness with optimism, often assuring him that he was improving.
“We used to communicate, and he would tell me, ‘Dad, as I stabilise, I’ll return to journalism and become the best journalist in this country because I’m young,’” he recalled.
Kimani, who once worked for Citizen TV and Nation Media Group, earned recognition for his captivating feature stories and lifestyle journalism. His openness about living with bipolar disorder inspired many Kenyans and helped spark national conversations around mental health awareness.
Public Support and Recovery Efforts
Kimani’s mental health journey drew public attention and support from notable figures such as former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and media personality Oga Obinna, both of whom helped him access treatment.
In April, Governor Sonko personally dispatched a team to locate Kimani in Thika’s Makongeni estate after a relapse. He was then readmitted to the rehabilitation centre.
“I engaged him in counselling and gave him another chance. I wanted him to recover and even work at the rehab facility afterward,” Sonko said at the time.
Despite the support and treatment efforts, Kimani’s recovery was marred by relapses, reportedly linked to substance abuse and peer pressure.
Family Accepts the Painful Reality
Kimathi confirmed that his son’s death was self-inflicted, adding that CCTV footage and a handwritten suicide note corroborated the circumstances.
“We do not blame the rehabilitation centre. The note was in his handwriting. I thank Governor Mike Sonko, Obinna, and every Kenyan who supported his journey,” he said.
The family has since transferred Kimani’s body to Murang’a County, where he will be laid to rest on October 28 at their home in Maragua.
