By courtesy of the Speaker’s Press Unit (SPU)
Moses Wetang’ula has called on Members of Parliament to review and strengthen existing laws to enhance road safety following the deadly accident at Malaha junction that has so far claimed 15 lives.
The Speaker made the remarks on Tuesday during a visit to the crash site along the Webuye road, where a truck rammed into a group of people, killing 15 and injuring several others.
Wetang’ula urged authorities to speed up investigations and arrest the truck driver, who reportedly fled the scene and remains at large.
“We stand here in unison and in unity as a people of this region, of this country and of this county to condemn in the strongest terms possible the recklessness of the driver of the lorry that killed people in this area,” he said.
The Speaker led a delegation of leaders that included George Kariuki, chair of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure; Gabriel Tongoyo, chair of the Administration and Internal Security Committee; and Martin Wanyonyi Pepela.
The leaders consoled bereaved families and pledged government support to those affected.
Wetang’ula announced that the government would cover medical expenses for the ten injured victims and assist in meeting burial costs for the 15 who died.
During a visit to survivors at Webuye County Referral Hospital, the Speaker facilitated the transfer of two critically injured patients requiring specialized treatment.
“I have called the Chief Executive Officer of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and the governor will provide an ambulance to ensure they receive proper treatment,” he said.
Among those affected is an elderly man who lost six members of his family in the crash.
Wetang’ula also announced plans for a fundraiser on Sunday, March 15, to support the victims’ families, followed by a joint requiem Mass on Monday, March 16, in Bungoma town.
The Speaker backed road safety enforcement measures by the National Transport and Safety Authority, stressing the need to remove reckless drivers and unroadworthy vehicles from Kenyan roads.
“If you do not deserve to be on the road, you don’t deserve to be there. If you are on the road and you don’t adhere to the laws of the land, you deserve to be punished instantly. Your right to be on the road is equal to the right of others to be on the road,” he said.
Burial arrangements
He urged Parliament to tighten traffic laws and called on the public to remain vigilant and report offenders.
“Enough is enough, we must make our roads safe,” Wetang’ula stated.
A funeral committee has been formed to coordinate burial arrangements.
The team will be led by Webuye East MP Martin Wanyonyi Pepela and Catherine Wambilianga, and will include Janepher Chemtai Mbatiany and several Members of the County Assembly.
One resident, Isaac, who lost his wife in the crash, said he hopes three of his injured relatives will recover.
“I lost my wife on the spot. My other brother had stomach injuries. We are seeking support from well-wishers and hope that the government will redesign the road,” he said.
At Webuye County Referral Hospital, postmortems have so far been conducted on six victims, with seven more awaiting examination.
Hospital Medical Superintendent David Wanikina said two male patients require specialized treatment.
He added that the hospital, in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross Society, is providing psychosocial support to families affected by the tragedy.