Sifuna, Owino urge Nairobi MCAs to fearlessly continue with oversight work after Munuve’s death

A section of Nairobi leaders is demanding accountability and urging MCAs to continue their oversight work without fear following the tragic death of MCA Joel Munuve.

Speaking during a memorial service for Munuve at All Saints Cathedral on Thursday, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and MP Babu Owino emphasised that leaders should not be shaken by threats to their lives.

Sifuna reminded the MCAs that their roles are crucial and must be performed fearlessly, just as Munuve did during his time in office.

The Senator stated that Munuve, who was known for his boldness in asking questions, did not hesitate to perform his duties even in difficult circumstances.

“Munuve was not choosy and never picked who to interact with. He was dedicated to his work, and we must honour his legacy by continuing his oversight roles without fear,” Sifuna said.

Addressing the Nairobi MCAs, the ODM Secretary General said Munuve was not scared nor was he shaken to carry out his oversight role.

“ You ( MCAs) should not be shaken. If there is a problem at the assembly, please I ask our Nairobi MCAs to carry on with Munuve’s legacy,” Sifuna added.

“Personally, I will always be here to speak the truth, and I’m not scared. When my day comes, it will come,” he said.

MP Babu Owino also expressed his shock over Munuve’s death, describing him as a personal friend and highlighting the importance of standing firm in leadership.

“We cannot allow fear to dictate how we serve our people. Munuve’s death should not deter us from asking the tough questions, as it is our duty to hold institutions accountable,” Owino noted.

The leaders also demanded a full investigation into Munuve’s death, stressing that no leader should be put in danger for simply doing their job.

“We have to ensure accountability in Munuve’s death. His loss is a stark reminder of the dangers that come with being in public office, but that should not stop us from fulfilling our roles,” Sifuna emphasised.

The call for accountability also extended to the wider political arena, as both leaders urged the relevant authorities to expedite the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Munuve’s death.

“It is vital that justice is served, not just for Munuve but for all leaders who risk their lives to serve the public,” Owino said..

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• Owino urge Nairobi MCAs to fearlessly continue with oversight work after Munuve’s death

“The questions that the family and MCAs have concerning Munuve’s death must be answered,” Sifuna added.

Munuve was pronounced dead on arrival at AAR Hospital along Kiambu Road after complaining of chest pains on April 22, 2025.

His sudden death sparked public concern and drew attention from political leaders who sent representatives to witness the postmortem.

In total, five pathologists participated in the autopsy, supported by 15 specialists from the DCI’s Homicide Unit and Forensic Crime Scene department.

A team of government and private pathologists has confirmed that Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve died of a pulmonary embolism — a sudden blockage in the lungs caused by a blood clot.

The post-mortem was conducted at Lee Funeral Home by a team of seven pathologists led by Chief Government Pathologist, Dr Johansen Oduor.

Also present were forensic experts from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and lawyers representing various parties, including the family, Nairobi County Assembly, AAR Hospital and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.

Munuve, elected as an independent candidate in the 2022 General Elections, was known for his unwavering independence.

He often clashed with MCAs allied to Azimio and UDA, especially when public resources were misused.

He never hesitated to expose questionable tenders, including garbage collection contracts and concerns around Governor Sakaja’s ‘Dishi na County’ school feeding programme.

He was among the first MCAs to raise the alarm about a private company allegedly formed by the Executive to manage waste in Nairobi.

Munuve warned that the move might open loopholes for corruption.

“I will fight for my people to the death. I am not afraid. If they want to come for me, let them come,” he once said after reporting receiving threats.

His boldness was perhaps most visible in 2023 when he initiated an impeachment motion against Governor Sakaja, citing mismanagement and poor service delivery.

“Everything is not working. If you go to my area, there is garbage on the road. Why? Because the people who were contracted to collect the garbage are not paid,” he had argued.

Though the motion failed, Munuve said it collapsed due to threats and intimidation.

In his ward, Munuve was seen as a true grassroots leader who preferred being on the ground rather than in City Hall.

He actively fought for better healthcare and advocated for the Mama Margaret Kenyatta Hospital to be transferred to the national government due to mismanagement.