Autopsy Confirms What Led To Makueni County Official Sonnia Nzilani's Death
Her passing sparked nationwide condolences, including from President William Ruto, who lauded her service and environmental advocacy.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
Makueni County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism Sonnia Nzilani died from cardiac tamponade, according to the latest postmortem findings.
Family doctor Ancient Kituku, who attended the examination, explained on Monday, November 24, that Nzilani’s heart “burst and leaked a lot of blood,” creating pressure around the heart that ultimately led to her death.
Cardiac tamponade happens when blood or other fluids accumulate in the pericardium, restricting the heart’s ability to pump properly.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr signs a condolence book at the Office of the Governor grounds on November 24, 2025. /KISIA NZUKI
Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr., who reviewed the postmortem report alongside family members and officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), said the results helped address the many concerns that had emerged after Nzilani’s sudden collapse.
“It was a sudden death, and we had a number of questions that we wanted answered,” Mutula remarked. “She had a mark on the head, which raised suspicions. On her face, you could see she was pale, like someone without enough blood.”
Doctors told the governor that Nzilani likely experienced dizziness before she collapsed, which would explain the facial injury.
He also emphasized that medical experts confirmed no evidence of foul play. “The family and DCI were here. There were many questions. I have been receiving a lot of calls from all over, and I am happy that we now have answers,” he added. “The family now has consolation that there was no foul play.”
Mutula added that Nzilani had been battling a heart condition for the last 12 years. Her passing sparked nationwide condolences, including from President William Ruto, who lauded her service and environmental advocacy.
“Her commitment to public service and her passion for environmental conservation touched countless lives,” President Ruto said in a condolence message. “May her legacy encourage us all to work together for a greener and more prosperous future for Makueni and the nation.”
Nzilani gained nationwide attention after she came under fire for making controversial remarks that linked a girl’s death to her menstrual cycle. The controversy emerged earlier this year during the funeral of a 17-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a crocodile attack while fetching water from the Athi River in Kithaayoni, Kathonzweni sub-county.
During the burial ceremony on Friday, January 17, Dr Nzilani suggested that the crocodile had attacked the girl because she was menstruating, claiming that crocodiles are drawn to the scent of menstruating women.
“Crocodiles mostly attack women, especially when they are on their periods. The smell produced during menstruation attracts crocodiles. Parents should monitor their children and avoid sending them to fetch water during this time,” Nzilani said at the time
This statement quickly sparked a backlash from locals, advocacy groups, and experts, who denounced the remarks as disrespectful and scientifically unfounded.
Many people found the comments to be insensitive and damaging, especially given the importance of promoting accurate information about menstrual health and wildlife safety.
Nzilani later apologised for the comments, even though Governor Mutula would move to suspend her for 45 days.
