Moses Wetang’ula has urged Members of Parliament to revise and fortify current legislation to improve road safety in the wake of the fatal incident at Malaha junction that has resulted in 15 fatalities.
During a visit to the accident scene on Webuye road on Tuesday, the Speaker commented on how a truck collided with pedestrians, causing 15 deaths and multiple injuries.
Wetang’ula called for swift investigation by authorities and the apprehension of the truck driver, who allegedly abandoned the scene and has not been apprehended.
We stand together as one people from this region, this country, and this county to condemn with the utmost severity the recklessness of the truck driver who caused these fatalities in our area,” he stated.
The Speaker was accompanied by a team of leaders consisting of 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 offered condolences to grieving families and promised government assistance to those impacted by the tragedy.
Wetang’ula declared that the government would bear medical expenses for the ten injured individuals and contribute to funeral expenses for the 15 deceased.
While visiting survivors at Webuye County Referral Hospital, the Speaker arranged for the transfer of two critically injured patients who needed specialized medical care.
I have contacted the Chief Executive Officer of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and the governor will dispatch an ambulance to ensure they receive appropriate medical attention,” he explained.
Among the victims is an elderly gentleman who lost six family members in the collision.
Wetang’ula also revealed plans for a fundraising event on Sunday, March 15, to aid the families of victims, followed by a joint requiem Mass on Monday, March 16, in Bungoma town.
The Speaker endorsed road safety enforcement actions by the National Transport and Safety Authority, emphasizing the necessity of removing negligent drivers and unsafe vehicles from Kenyan roads.
If you are not fit to be on the road, then you should not be there. If you use the road without complying with the laws of the land, you should face immediate consequences. Your right to drive is equivalent to the right of others to travel safely,” he stated.
Regarding burial arrangements, he urged Parliament to strengthen traffic laws and called on citizens to remain alert and report violators.
Enough is enough, we must ensure our roads are safe,” Wetang’ula declared.
A funeral committee has been established to manage burial arrangements. The committee will be chaired by Webuye East MP Martin Wanyonyi Pepela and Catherine Wambilianga, and will include Janepher Chemtai Mbatiany and several Members of the County Assembly.
One Isaac, a resident who lost his wife in the accident, expressed hope that three of his injured relatives will recover.
I lost my wife instantly. My other brother sustained abdominal injuries. We are requesting assistance from well-wishers and hope the government will redesign this road,” he shared.
At Webuye County Referral Hospital, autopsies have been performed on six victims, with seven more awaiting examination.
Hospital Medical Superintendent David Wanikina indicated that two male patients need specialized medical care.
He noted that the hospital, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross Society, is offering psychological support to families impacted by the tragedy.