Mwangi Maribe, the father of former television journalist Jacque Maribe, has died following a battle with cancer, his family confirmed. He became a symbol of paternal devotion, consistently appearing in court and publicly defending his daughter throughout her protracted murder trial.

The nation largely came to know Mr. Maribe during his daughter's trial in connection with the 2018 murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani. His unwavering presence, physically shielding her from intense media scrums outside the courthouse, created a lasting image of a father's protective love. This ordeal, he once noted, was a "tortuous journey" that took a significant emotional and financial toll on his family.

A Father's Unwavering Defense

Mr. Maribe was vocal in his daughter's defense, insisting on her innocence from the outset. He argued that her only mistake was falling in love. "Police want to become famous by nailing a celebrity. That is why my daughter is in custody," he stated in one interview, proclaiming that she was a victim of circumstance. His conviction never wavered, even as the case dragged on for years before Jacque was ultimately acquitted in February 2024.

Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in, many recalling his quiet strength. Long-time family friend and digital strategist Dennis Itumbi described him as a "solid" man. In a heartfelt social media post, Jacque Maribe expressed her profound grief, writing, "I don't know how I will live without you dad, but I know you are not in pain. I love you with everything in me."

A Trial That Gripped a Nation

The murder trial was one of the most high-profile cases in recent Kenyan history. Jacque Maribe and her then-fiancé, Joseph 'Jowie' Irungu, were charged in connection with the death of Monica Kimani. While Jowie was convicted of the murder, the court found that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove Maribe's involvement. Throughout the ordeal, Mr. Maribe and his wife stood by their daughter, expressing their faith in her eventual vindication.

Mr. Maribe's passing is not just a private loss for his family, but also the departure of a man who, for many Kenyans, came to represent the profound strength of parental love in the face of overwhelming adversity. His quiet, resolute support for his daughter, played out on a national stage, left an indelible mark.