Pathologists Confirm Blood Clot Caused Kariobangi MCA’s Death in Nairobi

A comprehensive post-mortem examination has definitively determined that Joel Munuve Kimanzi, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Kariobangi North, died as a result of complications arising from a pulmonary embolism. 

The findings, announced by Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor, bring closure to the intense speculation surrounding the lawmaker’s sudden death. Dr. Oduor revealed the cause of death at a press briefing held outside the Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi, stating that Munuve's body exhibited clear signs of hypoxia, a condition characterised by severe oxygen deficiency. External examination revealed cyanosis, a darkening of the lips and fingernails, indicative of critically low oxygen levels.

The investigation reveals that the oxygen deprivation originated in Munuve's lungs, where a substantial blood clot was found obstructing the pulmonary artery. This artery is vital for transporting blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. The blockage, medically termed a pulmonary embolism, severely compromised this crucial function, leading to his death. The pathologists traced the origin of the clot to a similar condition in a vessel in Munuve's lower limbs, suggesting that the clot had travelled from his legs to his lungs, a process known as embolisation. 

To address public concerns and allegations of foul play, samples were collected for toxicological analysis, and these will undergo independent analysis by the family, police, and government laboratories. Dr. Peter Maturi, the family pathologist, corroborates Dr. Oduor’s findings and emphasises the family’s acceptance of the conclusions. Maturi highlights that the late MCA had an enlarged heart and had experienced prior episodes of chest pain and fainting, symptoms consistent with the diagnosis. 

He also points to contributing risk factors, including Munuve’s recent international travel to Germany and Zimbabwe, involving prolonged periods of sitting, a known trigger for blood clots. Maturi also notes the increasing prevalence of clotting cases, particularly among individuals recovering from viral infections such as COVID-19. He reveals that Munuve had reportedly experienced such an infection two weeks before his death.

The investigative process involved independent specialists, including a pathologist from AAR Hospital, where Munuve collapsed, and additional pathologists appointed by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, ensuring transparency and reinforcing public confidence in the findings. Danstan Omari, the family’s lawyer, raises concerns about Munuve’s prior medical treatment, suggesting a potential misdiagnosis at the facility where he initially sought care. 

Omari indicates that the family might consider legal recourse pending the final toxicological and histological reports. Duncan Okach, representing the Nairobi County Assembly, emphasizes the consensus among all pathologists involved, highlighting that there was no dispute regarding the cause of death. This clarity allows the family to proceed with funeral arrangements, with Okach urging well-wishers to support them during this difficult time.

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai, speaking on behalf of Munuve’s colleagues, expressed hope that the findings would bring closure and ease tensions within the political fraternity, emphasising that while Munuve could not be brought back, the clarity surrounding his death would reduce speculation and unrest.