In a harrowing turn of events, Kisumu County is mourning the loss of 17 lives in yet another tragic road accident, just days after the death of Star Newspaper Journalist Dickens Wasonga in a separate incident.
The latest calamity unfolded in the early hours at Othoo in Nyando Sub-County along the Kisumu-Nairobi road, where a Super Metro transport Company bus collided with a lorry while attempting to overtake a saloon car. The aftermath reveals a scene of devastation, with several passengers sustaining serious injuries and fears that the death toll may rise.
This marks the second fatal accident in the county within three days, prompting Governor H.E Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o to urgently call upon the Police to investigate the escalating number of accidents in Nyanza. The governor is seeking answers to critical questions surrounding the Othoo incident – were the vehicles roadworthy, did the bus exceed its passenger capacity, and did it have the proper license for the route? Additionally, concerns arise about the enforcement of rules restricting lorries and trailers from using highways at night.
Governor Nyong’o emphasizes the need for strict enforcement of traffic rules to curb the rising trend of accidents. Between December of the previous year and today, the county has witnessed a disturbing number of casualties. The call to action is clear: the police must conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding these accidents and take stringent measures against those violating traffic regulations.
As Kisumu County grapples with grief, Governor Nyong’o extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishes a swift recovery to the injured. The tragic events underscore the urgency of addressing road safety concerns to prevent further loss of lives on the perilous roads of Nyanza.
STATEMENT ON THE OTHOO ROAD TRAGEDY pic.twitter.com/u92GY5hkVs
— Gov. Anyang' Nyong'o (@AnyangNyongo) January 29, 2024