DCI Takes Over Investigation into Sudden Death of Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has assumed control of the investigation into the sudden death of Joel Munuve, the Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for Kariobangi North in Nairobi. 

The postmortem examination, initially scheduled for Thursday, has been postponed to Friday to allow for the inclusion of the DCI’s Homicide Unit, alongside the government pathologist, family representatives, and other relevant parties. The decision to defer the autopsy was announced by the family's lawyer, Danstan Omari, outside the Lee Funeral Home, where Munuve's body is being held. Omari emphasises that the postponement is necessary to ensure thoroughness and transparency, considering Munuve's prominent public and political profile. 

"The family, the Homicide Unit of the DCI, and the political fraternity have jointly resolved to move the autopsy to tomorrow," Omari says, noting that the family and the County Assembly have been given the opportunity to appoint independent pathologists to oversee the process.

Munuve passed away on April 22 while en route to Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD). According to Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Kennedy Ngondi, Munuve experienced sudden chest pains before being rushed to a hospital along Kiambu Road, where he was pronounced dead. Ngondi described Munuve as a dedicated and compassionate leader who was deeply committed to serving his constituents. 

"The leadership of the Nairobi County Assembly is profoundly shaken by his untimely passing. He was a dedicated servant of the people, whose absence will leave a significant void in the assembly," Ngondi remarked.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja also expressed his condolences, praising Munuve as a passionate and committed public servant. He urged caution against premature speculation regarding the MCA's death, emphasising the need for a thorough and impartial investigation. 

"Joel Munuve epitomized leadership that was both firm and grounded in service delivery. His vision for Kariobangi North, aligned with the broader aspirations of a working Nairobi, will forever remain a benchmark for integrity and dedication," Sakaja stated in his message of condolences. 

Munuve's death has been further complicated by the contentious political environment in which he operated. Known for his unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, Munuve served as an independent candidate in a ward dominated by party politics. His tenure was marked by his vocal stance on pressing issues, including his recent demands for clarity on Governor Sakaja's "Dishi na County" school feeding program. 

Additionally, Munuve's sudden death coincides with rumours that he was poised to introduce an impeachment motion against the governor, a development that has added layers of intrigue and controversy to the situation. Omari notes that the legal framework allows for multiple pathologists to participate in the postmortem process, given Munuve's high-profile status. 

President William Ruto also expressed his condolences, characterising Munuve as a bold and enterprising leader who dedicated his efforts to uplifting the residents of Kariobangi North. As the investigation progresses, questions about the possible causes of his death continue to linger. Was it a case of natural causes, or does foul play lurk beneath the surface?