Nairobi MCA Joel Munuve died of blood clot, lack of oxygen, autopsy shows

A team of seven pathologists, lawyers, and forensic experts from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations has confirmed the cause of death of Kariobangi North MCA, Joel Munuve Kimanzi.

 In a press briefing outside Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi, the government’s Chief Pathologist, Dr Johansen Oduor - who led the post-mortem - stated that the MCA died due to insufficient oxygen in the body.

“When we examined the body of the late MCA, we observed cyanosis - darkening of the lips and fingernails - during the external examination. This is typical in individuals who are not receiving adequate oxygen,” said Dr Oduor.

He explained that the findings indicate Munuve was experiencing oxygen deprivation at the time of death.

“We investigated further to determine the cause of the oxygen deficiency. The primary findings were in the lungs. We discovered a large blood clot in the pulmonary artery - a vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation - firmly attached to the vessel wall,” Dr Oduor said. “This condition is known as pulmonary embolism, which can lead to sudden death.”

To trace the clot’s origin, the team examined the lower limbs and found a similar condition in one of the vessels, suggesting the clot had travelled from there to the lungs.

The pathologists also took samples for toxicological analysis to establish whether any traces of poisoning were present, as had been alleged.

Toxicological analysis

“To clear all doubts, we have taken samples for toxicological analysis. This will involve multiple sets: one by the family for private analysis, one by the police, and one by the government,” said Dr Oduor.

Given the high-profile nature of the case, Dr Oduor said that each party had taken samples for independent analysis to address public speculation surrounding the MCA’s death.

“Since this is a politically sensitive matter and many questions have been raised, we have taken samples to rule out any other possible causes of death. Histological (microscopic) analysis will also be conducted,” he added.

Family pathologist Dr Peter Maturi confirmed the family’s satisfaction with the findings and noted that the MCA’s heart was enlarged at the time of death.

“He had experienced chest pains and fainting episodes prior to his death - all consistent with the diagnosed cause,” said Dr Maturi.

According to him, while blood clots are more common in women, they are increasingly being observed in men, often linked to sedentary lifestyles and long-distance travel - such as the MCA’s recent trips to Germany and Zimbabwe.

“Such cases are sometimes associated with long periods of sitting, such as during flights, and can also result from infections,” Dr Maturi said.

He further suggested the possibility of post-Covid-19 complications being a contributing factor.

“We are seeing more clotting cases post-Covid. We understand he had viral infections two weeks prior, which may be relevant,” he added.

Family lawyer Danstan Omari confirmed that all samples taken by the various parties will be analysed, and the results made public to address any lingering doubts.

Correct diagnosis

He criticised the medical facility that the MCA had visited earlier, alleging a possible misdiagnosis.

“He might have survived had he received the correct diagnosis and treatment. He had sought medical attention, and once the final report is out, the family will consider how to proceed,” Mr Omari said.

Lawyer Duncan Okach, representing the Nairobi County Assembly, said that all pathologists involved in the exercise agreed on the cause of death. He said the next step would be to begin funeral arrangements.

“There is no dispute over the cause of death. The family will now commence burial preparations, and we call upon everyone of goodwill to support them,” said Mr Okach.

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai, who was among several MCAs present during the post-mortem, said the findings have brought clarity to the matter.

“We cannot bring him back, but we can seek closure. I hope this brings peace, particularly within the political fraternity, where tensions have been high,” Mr Alai said.

The post-mortem was also witnessed by a pathologist from AAR Hospital - where the MCA collapsed at the entrance while seeking medical assistance - and two additional pathologists appointed by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.

kbosuben@ke.nationmedia.com