DCI Steps In After Sakaja's Remarks On MCA Joel Munuve's Death

The postmortem was put on hold to accommodate a specialised DCI unit, amid mounting public speculation over the circumstances of Munuve’s death

DCI Steps In After Sakaja's Remarks On MCA Joel Munuve's Death
DCI director Mohamed Amin speaking as DCI's Anti-Narcotics Unit received state-of-the-art equipment from the United States through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) on February 8, 2023. /DCI

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has now taken charge of the probe into the sudden death of Kariobangi North Member of County Assembly (MCA) Joel Munuve, just hours ahead of a planned autopsy.

The postmortem was put on hold to accommodate a specialised DCI unit, amid mounting public speculation over the circumstances of Munuve’s death, these developments meaning the demise now has a fresh twist to it.

The family of the late MCA, whose death has sparked widespread speculation following reports that he was preparing to table an impeachment motion against Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, will now face a longer wait for answers about what caused his death.

Speaking to the press, the family’s lawyer, Danstan Omari, confirmed that the postmortem has been delayed to allow the participation of the DCI and other key stakeholders in the investigation.

The late Nairobi MCA representing Kariobangi North, Joel Munuve. /X

Omari also noted that in addition to the government pathologist and DCI investigators, both the family and the Nairobi County Assembly are free to appoint their pathologists to observe the process.

"We have confirmed that the DCI specialised unit will help the team of pathologists from the government side to do the postmortem. The family has an option to get their private pathologist," Omari stated.

"The County Assembly also has an option for its pathologist. The honourable is a member of the political class. Given that, the law does not stop anybody from appointing a pathologist."

This comes after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja warned against being drawn into speculation following Munuve's passing. He extended his condolences to Munuve’s family and called for calm amid an investigation into the MCA's death.

"I pass my deepest and sincere condolences to the people of Kariobangi North who lost a Member of County Assembly (MCA), Joel Munuve; he collapsed at home, and the autopsy is slated for tomorrow, Thursday, April 24. We have asked for a full investigation so that we understand what happened because I don't think he had a history of illness," he stated during an interview on Citizen TV on Wednesday, April 23.

"Death is a serious thing, it is not something that we can play with or politicise. He was very firm and passionate about the issues he believed in; there were times we disagreed and also times we agreed. I want to allay whatever political speculation that could be there. There is a full investigation into what happened to Munuve."

Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve, who defied the odds by winning as an independent in a space dominated by party politics, was known for his unwavering oversight in a county assembly often seen as compromised. His unexpected death on Tuesday stunned both colleagues and constituents.

Reports indicated that Munuve was en route to the city centre when he suddenly developed intense chest pains. Efforts to get him to a hospital along Kiambu Road in Nairobi were unsuccessful, as he died before receiving medical care.

In late 2023, Munuve drew public attention after launching a signature drive aimed at impeaching Governor Sakaja. The initiative stemmed from accusations of delayed bursary allocations, alleged incompetence within the county government, and rampant corruption at City Hall.

Munuve, backed by several fellow MCAs, voiced deep frustration over the governor’s leadership, pointing to poor revenue management and the growing influence of cartels in county operations.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during an interview with Citizen TV on April 23, 2025. /JEFF KOINANGE