Cheap liquor blamed for accident that killed siblings
The government has been told to act on the proliferation of lethal alcoholic drinks in Central Kenya as two young siblings killed by a matatu reportedly driven by a drunk driver, were laid to rest in an emotional send off.
During the burial at Ikuyu village in Maragua, Murang’a county, on Tuesday, a cross section of leaders called on the government to take deterrent measures against matatu drivers who go to work while drunk.
The two, Ian Mwangi Kamande,12 and his younger sister Precious Nyambura were pupils at Makongo Primary School in Gatanga sub-county and were walking home when the accident occurred on March 3.
Addressing mourners, leaders, among them road safety officials and politicians expressed their dismay over the deaths.
Edward Gitonga, chairman of Speed Governors and Road Safety Association said his team is lobbying for suspension of matatu Saccos whose drivers drink alcohol while on duty.
“We cannot continue losing innocent lives in this manner, particularly when a PSV driver is allowed to drive while under the influence of alcohol,” Gitonga said.
His National Road Safety Association Chairman David Kiarie (pictured) said he is pushing MPs to amend the Traffic Act and introduce a charge of murder for drivers who cause death through reckless driving.
