Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has passed his condolences to the family and electorate of Kariobangi North following the death of MCA Joel Munuve.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Wednesday, Sakaja cautioned against politicising or “playing with” Munuve’s death.
He wondered why there were speculations of foul play, stating that an autopsy is due Thursday to determine the cause of death.
“Allow me to pass my deepest and sincere condolences to the people of Kariobangi North who lost their MCA, Joel Munuve. He collapsed at home. I don’t know why you call it murder, maybe you have information, but the autopsy is tomorrow,” he said.
“We have asked for a full investigation to understand what happened because I don’t think he had a history of illness, but we will let the professionals tell us. Death is a serious thing and is not something we can play with or politicise.”
He said the county government will support the family during this difficult moment.
Sakaja mourned Munuve as a passionate leader, stating that even though they had their political differences, they would hold meetings and agree on some issues.
“He was very firm and very passionate about the issues he believed in. There were times we disagreed, but then there were times we also agreed, and we sat down and had meetings,” he added.
“What we want is full investigations into what happened to Mheshimiwa to allay all these political speculations. We have agencies charged with those responsibilities, and I think they should do the work…if it was foul play, there must be justice.”
Munuve died on Tuesday morning.
Nairobi County Assembly Speaker, Kennedy Ngondi, said Munuve was headed to the office in the CBD when he developed chest pains.
“He was rushed to the hospital where he died,” he said.
Ngondi said the body was moved to Lee Funeral Home pending autopsy.
He described him as a hard-working MCA who had his people at heart.
“The leadership of the County Assembly of Nairobi is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of one of our members, Joel Munuve, who is the elected member up to date for Kariobangi North ward,” the speaker said.
“He suddenly collapsed and passed away earlier today. Munuve was a dedicated leader, a tireless servant of the people and a passionate voice in the assembly."
Ngondi said Munuve’s relentless commitment to the people of Kariobangi North and the greater ideals of public service will be remembered with immense respect and admiration.
“His sudden demise is a profound loss to his family, his constituents and the entire Nairobi City county government. On behalf of the county assembly of Nairobi and on my behalf as the speaker, we convey our deepest condolences to the family, friends and constituents of Munuve," the Speaker said.
