DCI Takes Over Probe into Kariobangi North MCA Death

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has assumed leadership of the investigation into the death of Kariobangi North Member of County Assembly (MCA) Joel Munuve, following discussions between the deceased’s family, police, and county officials.

Family lawyer Danstan Omari confirmed the development Thursday at Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi, announcing that an autopsy originally scheduled for Thursday has been rescheduled to Friday, April 25.

“We had a meeting with the government and family pathologists at the regional offices at Nairobi area where the Director of homicide is based, and we have agreed to conduct the post mortem on Friday,” Omari told reporters.

The decision to involve the DCI’s homicide unit comes amid growing speculation about the circumstances surrounding Munuve’s sudden death.

The MCA, who had recently been questioning certain Nairobi County projects, collapsed and died Tuesday while being rushed to hospital after complaining of pain.

“When somebody dies in such a manner, it is mandatory to ascertain the cause of death through autopsy,” Omari explained.

“The post mortem will clear any doubts and provide closure. The homicide experts have sought the services of a government pathologist, even though the family, County Assembly, and the Executive have an option of getting their own.”

Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri confirmed the meeting with Munuve’s family but downplayed immediate concerns, stating, “There is nothing serious that has been reported so far.”

The lawyer urged the public to avoid speculation until official findings are released. “The family requests complete silence on the cause of death until tomorrow when the pathologist gives the scientific cause,” Omari said.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has also called for thorough investigations. “I don’t know why people call it murder. We have asked for full investigations to understand what happened. I don’t think he had a history of illness,” the governor stated.

The MCA’s death has prompted debate among fellow assembly members who have committed to pursue the inquiries Munuve had initiated regarding county projects. During a special Assembly session Wednesday, Nairobi MCAs demanded fair investigations to determine whether Munuve died of natural causes or was the victim of foul play.

“We only want to know the cause of his death, whether it was a natural death or an assassination,” said nominated member Joyce Kamau, who added, “I want to call on my colleagues to rise and do our oversight role. We were not elected to do praise and worship. We were elected to represent the people of Nairobi.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​