The father of former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua, Dedan Kimathi, has revealed his son's heartbreaking final words, stating that the 29-year-old felt he had been a burden to himself and wished to rest. Mbugua died by suicide on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at a rehabilitation centre in Mombasa, where he had been undergoing treatment for bipolar disorder and substance abuse.

In an emotional account, Mr. Kimathi shared that his son's last message reflected a deep sense of hopelessness after years of battling mental health challenges. “He mentioned that 'I have chosen to rest in the hands of God,'” Kimathi recounted, adding that Kimani also wrote, “I know I have taken myself; I have been a burden to myself, and I don't want to be a burden any further.”

The family has accepted the tragic reality of Kimani's death and has ruled out any foul play. Investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and footage from the facility confirmed that Mbugua took his own life.

Historical and Political Context

Kimani Mbugua's struggles with mental health became public knowledge around 2020 when he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This condition, characterised by extreme mood swings, significantly impacted his once-promising media career. His journey through hospitals and rehabilitation centres, often shared candidly on social media, helped to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health in Kenya.

Several public figures, including former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and media personality Oga Obinna, intervened to support Mbugua's recovery efforts. Sonko, for instance, facilitated his admission to a rehabilitation centre in Mombasa and covered his medical expenses.

Laws/Policy and Governance

Kenya has made strides in addressing mental health, with increasing public discourse and some policy interventions. However, the tragic death of a public figure like Kimani Mbugua highlights the persistent gaps in mental healthcare access, affordability, and long-term support, particularly for young professionals. The Mental Health Act of 1989 is currently under review, with calls for a more comprehensive and modern legal framework to address the growing mental health crisis in the country.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Dedan Kimathi described his son as a brilliant mind whose potential was cut short by mental health challenges. He noted that Kimani had appeared to stabilise at various points during his treatment but experienced relapses, which his father attributed partly to negative peer influence. Despite his son's struggles, Mr. Kimathi maintained that Kimani was cheerful in their phone conversations from the rehabilitation centre and showed no signs of giving up.

In a note left behind, Kimani expressed exhaustion with frequent mental battles, stating, “I am tired; I have fought this body for long; it has affected my mind. I have been in treatment, and I am not getting well.” He also conveyed a desire for rest and stated he held no grudges against anyone.

Evidence/Data

• Date of Death: Tuesday, October 14, 2025
• Cause of Death: Suicide
• Age: 29 years old
• Diagnosis: Bipolar Disorder
• Burial Costs: The family is appealing for assistance, estimating the burial costs at KSh 217,600.

Risks/Implications

Mbugua's death underscores the urgent need for enhanced mental health support systems in Kenya. The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently highlighted the low investment in mental health services in many African countries, including Kenya. The stigma associated with mental illness often prevents individuals from seeking timely help, leading to worsening conditions and, in some tragic cases, suicide.

Unknowns and Controversies

While the family has ruled out foul play, the exact circumstances leading to Kimani Mbugua's final decision within the rehabilitation facility remain a subject of private family grief. The role of peer influence in his relapses, as mentioned by his father, also raises questions about the comprehensive support networks available to individuals recovering from mental health and substance abuse issues.

Timeline and Next Steps

Kimani Mbugua's body is expected to be transported to Nairobi on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, ahead of his burial scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in Maragua, Murang'a County. The family has appealed to Kenyans for financial assistance to ensure a dignified send-off.

What to Watch

The conversation around mental health in Kenya is expected to intensify following this tragedy. Advocacy groups and healthcare professionals will likely renew calls for increased government funding, improved access to mental health services, and sustained public awareness campaigns to combat stigma. The effectiveness of existing rehabilitation programmes and support networks for individuals battling similar conditions will also be under scrutiny.

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Mbugua's death draws parallels with other public figures in Kenya who have openly battled mental health challenges, prompting a broader discussion on the pressures faced by individuals in the public eye and the need for robust support systems.