Kenyans online have joined celebrated journalist Jacque Maribe in mourning the passing of her father, Mwangi Maribe. While the cause of death for the family patriarch remains private, an outpouring of grief has flooded social media.

Many have described Mr. Maribe as a steadfast pillar of strength who remained a constant support for his daughter during her most difficult public trials.

His loyalty was most visible when Jacque faced murder charges alongside her former boyfriend, Jowie Irungu. While the courts eventually acquitted her, Irungu was found guilty and sentenced to death for the murder of Monica Kimani.

An Epitome of Parenthood

Former CAS David Osiany paid a moving tribute to the departed, describing him as the ultimate example of a protective father.

“When his daughter was in the eye of the storm, this good old man unflinchingly wrapped her in daddy’s arms. The arms that trust the child when the whole world doubts her. The arms that love a child when hatred is spewed like venom. The eyes that fiercely say, ‘I bore this child and brought her up. I know what she can and can’t do. I can bet with my life and that of her mother, that these allegations and assertions about my child are untrue, and I will defend her to my last drop of sweat and blood”, said Osiany in a long post on Facebook.