An autopsy report has confirmed the cause of death of Kariobangi North Member of County Assembly (MCA) Joel Munuve, following a joint post-mortem examination.
Independent and government pathologists carried out the autopsy on Friday, April 25, at Lee Funeral Home.
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Their report ruled out foul play in Munuve’s death, which occurred on Tuesday at a hospital in Kiambu.
According to the findings, the MCA died from pulmonary thromboembolism, a blood clot that originated in the deep veins of his left leg and travelled to his lungs, where it fatally obstructed a major blood vessel.
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“As a result of my examination, I formed the opinion that the cause of death was Pulmonary Thromboembolism due to Left Popliteal Vein Deep Vein Thrombosis. A blood clot (thrombus) travelled to the lungs and blocked a blood vessel, leading to death,” the autopsy report stated.
Autopsy report reveals what killed MCA Munuve
Additional examination revealed that the clot had originated from the popliteal vein situated behind the left knee, where multiple other clots were discovered—some showing signs of having existed for an extended duration.
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The pathologists also observed a scar on Munuve’s right lung, suggesting a long-standing condition. A swab was taken for further viral analysis.
The postmortem further uncovered a swelling in the neck, which was later diagnosed as a lipoma—a non-cancerous accumulation of fat.
Also Read: Why an Autopsy is Conducted Even When Cause of Death Seems Obvious- Experts
A significant finding was a large blood clot in the pulmonary trunk, partially covered with a whitish coating, indicating it had developed over a period of time. This clot had severely restricted blood flow to the lungs, critically affecting oxygen intake and breathing.
It had also spread into the lungs, causing tissue death due to insufficient blood supply, which ultimately led to Munuve’s death.
The postmortem examination was conducted days after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja downplayed speculations surrounding the death of the MCA.
Sakaja speaks on death of Kariobangi North MCA
This is after a section of leaders hinted at foul play in the death of Munuve, following reports that the deceased was pushing for the impeachment of Governor Sakaja from office.
Speaking on Citizen TV’s JKLive Show on Wednesday, the Nairobi Governor called for patience as investigations into the death of the MCA were underway.
Also Read: Sakaja Pleads with Kenyans After Death of Politician Who Wanted Him Impeached
Despite noting that the lawmaker had no known history of sickness, the county boss cautioned the public against politicizing the issue before an autopsy report is released.
“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,” Sakaja 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 politicize.”
Governor Sakaja remembered Munuve as a ‘passionate’ leader, acknowledging that even though they may have differed in some instances, they also agreed on political opinions.
The county boss consequently implored multi-agency bodies to conduct thorough investigations to allay concerns surrounding the death, adding that anyone found culpable should face the law.
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