The Nairobi County Assembly is mourning the sudden death of Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve Kimanzi. His passing was announced by Nairobi County Speaker Ken Ngondi, who described the event as a big blow to both the assembly and the people of Kariobangi North.
Munuve collapsed at his ward office while going about his daily duties and was rushed to a private hospital located along Kiambu Road. Unfortunately, doctors at the hospital were not able to save him. He was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. According to early reports, the MCA had complained of chest pains before collapsing. However, the exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed. His body was later taken to Lee Funeral Home where an autopsy is expected to be conducted.
The news of Munuve’s death sparked an outpouring of grief from both his colleagues in the county assembly and the public. Speaker Ngondi praised him as a passionate and tireless servant who always put the needs of his people first. He said Munuve was not just a leader but also a brother to many, whose presence had enriched the county assembly.
Nairobi county governor Johnson Sakaja. Photo | File
This sentiment was echoed by many other leaders. Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai, who was close to Munuve, posted on X describing him as a brother and a friend. He said the loss was personal and painful. Karen MCA Anthony Maragu also mourned Munuve, describing him as a selfless leader who served his people with humility and passion. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also expressed his condolences, praying for strength and comfort for Munuve’s family and colleagues.
Joel Munuve was an independent MCA known for being outspoken and firm on issues affecting the people of Nairobi. Recently, he had been in the spotlight for accusing Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration of mismanaging the Dishi na County school feeding program. He had called for the governor’s impeachment and demanded a forensic audit, saying that billions of shillings were being lost through corruption.
His boldness and commitment to transparency had earned him both praise and criticism within political circles. His voice had become important especially as Nairobi residents questioned the county government’s priorities and spending.
Munuve was also unique in his ability to connect with different communities. Although he came from the Akamba community, he spoke fluent Luo and regularly appeared on Luo-speaking media stations. He had built strong ties with grassroots residents across ethnic lines, something that helped him win as an independent candidate.
His passing leaves a gap in the leadership of Kariobangi North, and many residents are struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Reports from local media confirm that his death adds to a growing number of political leaders who have passed away in 2025, raising concerns over stress, health challenges, and the need for better support for public servants. Munuve had also recently raised issues about contracts in the garbage collection sector, saying the deals were unfair and wasteful.
His focus on transparency, service delivery, and speaking truth to power made him stand out in a crowded and often divided political environment.
As family members, colleagues, and constituents continue to mourn, funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon. For now, the county has lost a bold and determined leader who believed in doing what was right, no matter the cost. His legacy will live on in the people he served and the causes he stood for.
