Dennis Itumbi has welcomed the acquittal of television journalist Jackie Maribe in a case involving the murder of businesswoman Monica Irungu.
Itumbi, a controversial blogger, suggested on social media that ‘justice had been done’ after the court pronounced judgment on the case that lasted six years.
“Jackie Maribe is free. Maribe did not kill Monica. I feel so vindicated,” he wrote on social media.
“It has been six years, a journey of shadows, where unjust chains sought to bind the spirit of a great friend, a charming personality, a friend I treasure much. Today, the truth has unveiled its brilliance, dispelling the darkness.”
Itumbi, a close ally of President William Ruto, further praised Maribe, a renowned journalist, for remaining calm and strong in a gruelling murder trial that lasted more than half a decade.
“Jacque Maribe, like a phoenix, now you have only one duty, rise from the ashes, for time may be lost, but not the essence of your being. As your friends, our collective hands extend to hold you as you take the next steps. My good friend, welcome back to the embrace of freedom.”
Separately, Itumbi has blasted investigation authorities that handled Maribe’s case during the reign of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing them of attempting to bungle the case.
He did not share proof.
Itumbi shared a close relation with Maribe and was on her side for the entirety of the court case and was at some point pictured sharing intimate moments with her, including kissing in public.
He also once delivered a birthday case to her live on air when she was anchoring news on Citizen TV.
Maribe was accused after the court ruled ‘she was not placed at the scene of crime’ during the murder.
Maribe’s former lover, Joseph Irungu aka Jowie was however convicted of murder. He is in detention awaiting sentencing.
