Media personality Jacque Maribe's father passes on

By Newsflash Writer

Former Citizen TV news anchor Jacque Maribe is grieving the death of her father, Mwangi Maribe.

In a message shared on Monday, December 22, Jacque poured out her sorrow as she paid an emotional tribute, drawing comfort from the belief that her father is finally free from pain.
“What do I say to a man like you? The very definition of perfection. I don’t know how I will live without you, dad, but I know you are no longer hurting. I love you with every part of me,” she wrote.

Former Industrialization, Trade and Enterprise Development CAS David Osiany said he was heartbroken by the news, noting that the loss resonated deeply with him as a parent.
“I learnt this morning that Jacky Maribe’s dad has sadly slept the sleep of death, and my heart breaks for her and the entire family. Not because I ever met the old man, but because in him I saw myself and my daughter, if anything were to go wrong,” he said.

Kenyans send tributes

Osiany went on to recount the steadfast support Mwangi Maribe gave his daughter during her darkest moments, portraying him as a father who remained resolute when many others withdrew.
“When his daughter was in the eye of the storm, this good old man never flinched as he wrapped her in a father’s arms. Arms that trust a child when the whole world doubts her. Arms that love a child when hatred is poured out like venom.

“The eyes that boldly declare, ‘I bore this child and raised her. I know what she can and cannot do. I would stake my life, and that of her mother, that these accusations against my child are untrue, and I will defend her with my last drop of sweat and blood,’” he added.

He further described Maribe as the very image of a present and protective father, explaining how deeply committed he was to his daughter’s healing and restoration.
“This good old man showed what it truly means to be a present dad when the whole world turned against an innocent daughter and destroyed her career for nothing — nothing at all. I saw him and concluded that he must have been saying, ‘If everyone abandons my child, leave her with me. Let me fix my broken princess’s crown, one star at a time. I made the crown. If it breaks, the master hand that can mend and rebuild it is still here — mine. Just bring her to me. I will help her heal. I will fix her again.’ That is what dads do,” he concluded.

Dennis Itumbi also conveyed his condolences, recalling a personal encounter with Maribe and describing him as a warm and admirable man.
“Asante sana, my friend Jacque Wanjiru, for introducing me to Mzee Maribe. A solid father and a man so easy to connect with. There is a photo online that will forever capture who he truly was — a great and loving dad. That image will live in many hearts.

“May God’s own hand wrap you and your family in grace, and may His strength carry you through this deep and aching moment. Jacque Maribe, you are in my prayers,” he said.

Public defender during a difficult trial

Mwangi became a widely known public figure for his unwavering defence of his daughter during her high-profile murder trial involving the murder of business lady Monicah Kimani, where his daughter had been co-accused with Joseph Irung (alias Jowie).

From the early stages of the investigation and court proceedings, he consistently declared Jacque’s innocence to the media, portraying her as a victim of circumstances beyond her control.

In one memorable statement, he claimed police were seeking publicity by targeting a celebrity, adding that Jacque’s “biggest mistake was falling in love.”

He also openly challenged the prosecution’s case, questioning how she could allegedly be involved in a murder and still go on to professionally present the news the following day.