There was drama and raw emotion in Karatina town on Monday morning after a middle-aged man was arrested while attempting to take his own life in broad daylight, sending shockwaves through the sleepy central Kenya town.
The distraught man, only identified as Muriuki, had reportedly climbed atop a story building in a bid to end his life after suffering what he described as the “ultimate betrayal” from the woman he had loved and trusted for seven solid years.
Eyewitnesses say the father of three was visibly broken, pacing the rooftop barefoot, tears streaming down his face as he shouted bitter words about how life had dealt him a cruel hand. He allegedly lost his job late last year due to company downsizing, and ever since, life has taken a brutal turn.
According to locals who know the couple, Muriuki and his wife had been inseparable sweethearts since their youth. However, when the financial drought struck, his wife is said to have packed her bags and vanished without a trace, taking their three children with her.
“He was never the same after she left,” said a boda boda rider at the scene. “He was always quiet, sometimes staring into space like a man trapped in his mind.”
Onlookers were gripped with tension as police officers and Good Samaritans tried to talk him down for over an hour. Cheers erupted after a brave youth climbed up and grabbed Muriuki before he could leap off, saving his life by a whisker.
Police later whisked him away for counselling and further assistance. His story has since sparked mixed reactions online, with many sympathising with him and calling for more support for men going through emotional and mental breakdowns.
Social media users are now urging authorities and mental health organisations to step in and provide proper guidance and support systems, especially for struggling fathers battling silent wars behind closed doors.
As investigations continue and Muriuki receives help, one thing is clear: behind many smiles in the streets are untold stories of heartbreak, disappointment, and cries for help.