Sonko mourns death of journalist Kimani Mbugua
By David Nthua, October 15, 2025Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has mourned the passing of former media personality Kimani Mbugua, who was found dead at the Mombasa Women Empowerment Mental Rescue Centre.
Through a post on his official Facebook page on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Sonko said it is believed that Kimani may have taken his own life.
Mike’s Sonko’s message
He described the news as heartbreaking and said the country has lost a young, talented journalist who once lit up Kenyan television screens with his energy and charisma.
“I am saddened to hear about the premature demise of former Citizen TV and NTV journalist Kimani Mbugua at the Mombasa Women Empowerment Mental Rescue Centre.
“It is believed that he may have taken his own life. I will issue a comprehensive statement once the police report is out,” Sonko said.
In his condolence message, Sonko expressed his sympathy to the family and friends of the late Kimani, praying for comfort during this painful time.
“In the meantime, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Kimani’s family, friends and relatives. I pray that God provides them with strength and comfort during this challenging time. May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” he added.
Kimani Mbugua, who rose to fame as a witty and charming entertainment journalist at Citizen TV before moving to NTV, had been battling mental health challenges for some time.
He was undergoing rehabilitation and treatment in Mombasa after years of struggling with depression and substance abuse.
In recent months, several Kenyans on social media had rallied behind him, calling for support and awareness about mental health.
His death has shocked the media fraternity and reignited discussions about the mental well-being of journalists and young people in the entertainment industry.
Nation mourns a double tragedy
Kimani’s death comes at a time when the nation is still in mourning following the passing of ODM Party Leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died earlier this week in India while undergoing treatment.
The double tragedy has left the country in grief, with Kenyans flooding social media platforms to express sorrow and pay tribute to both men, one a veteran political icon and the other a promising young journalist whose light went out too soon.