Nyong’o’s appeal to President Ruto over rising accidents

By Peter Ochieng 

Kisumu governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has requested President William Ruto to dualize major roads in Western Kenya, as a remedy against the increasing number of road accidents in the area.

In a statement seen by Nairobi Review, Nyong’o said that most major roads in the area are narrow, a classic example being the Kisumu – Busia highway, leading to an increase in the number of accidents.

“I wish to repeat my request to President William Ruto when he visited Kisumu last week that major roads in this region, including the busy Busia - Kisumu highway should be dualized to help reduce terrible accidents,” he said.

“I also urge the traffic police to crack down on unqualified drivers and unroad-worthy vehicles,” added the governor.

The statement attracted varied reactions online from some Kisumu residents, and those outside Kisumu. Here is a sample:

Lillian Ondiek: Very true Prof. I hereby also beseech you to do your part, the access road between Koru and Gilmori is also in shambles, totally cut off, are we lesser citizens of this county? We also deserve to be connected to the rest of the world.

Peter Brooks: Kisumu - Busia highway is the worst highway I have ever seen in this century. Does it even exist in governments plans? Leaders from this region must now do something about it.

Chepkilot Lang'at Julius: We've heard you, your excellency, you're the governor, just mobilise the national government to repair those roads.

Dan Ochieng Obuon: And the illegal roadblocks being erected daily (now six roadblocks from Muhoroni to Kisumu) for collection of money.

Jakakadure Ras: Kibos-Chiga-Rabour Road should be tarmacked. This road serves Kisumu city. Access roads in Kisumu are in a pathetic condition while you're busy looting. We miss Governor Ranguma.

His statement came hours after nine people died in a ghastly road accident that left several others badly injured in Muhoroni Sub- County.

Nyong'o said the accident at Bangla area along Muhoroni - Kipsitet road which occurred on Tuesday afternoon could have been avoided.