NAIROBI, Kenya- Former Nairobi County ICT Executive Newton Munene has been found dead at his Karen home under unclear circumstances, just weeks after testifying in a high-profile corruption case involving former Governor Mike Sonko.
Sonko broke the news on Saturday, October 11, confirming that Munene passed away the previous night. While the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed, the revelation has sparked shock and speculation across political and legal circles.
“I have received the sad news of Mr. Newton Munene’s passing with profound shock,” Sonko said in a statement. “He was a member of my Nairobi County Executive for the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector.”
In a dramatic statement, Sonko claimed that “cartels” were behind Munene’s death, linking it to his recent testimony in Sonko’s ongoing corruption trial.
“Mr. Munene’s death occurred just a week after he provided testimony as my defence witness in a case in which I have been wrongfully accused,” Sonko said.
He went on to condemn the incident as an act of cowardice, insisting he would not be silenced or intimidated.
“If my accusers possess any evidence linking me to acts of corruption, they should confront me in a court of law,” he said. “I refuse to bow to threats, intimidation, and coercion while innocent individuals are murdered for exercising their constitutional right to defend me.”
Sonko further alleged that other former members of his administration who had agreed to testify in his defence were now facing threats. “I have reliable information indicating that some former CECMs who served under my leadership are being intimidated not to testify. No level of threats will deter me from seeking justice,” he added.
Ongoing Investigations
Munene was among three key witnesses who had testified at the Anti-Corruption Court in Nairobi, defending Sonko against allegations tied to county contracts. His death now adds a new twist to the already contentious case, which has drawn national attention since Sonko’s ouster from office.
Police have yet to issue an official statement on the cause of death. Munene’s body has been moved to Lee Funeral Home as investigations continue.
A Growing Cloud of Uncertainty
The sudden death of a defence witness in such a high-profile corruption case has raised serious questions within Kenya’s legal and political arenas. Whether Munene’s passing was natural or connected to his testimony remains to be determined, but for now, one thing is clear — the shadow over Sonko’s long-running legal battles just deepened.
