Emotions as Londiani crash victims' families gather for memorial service

Relatives and friends of the Londiani crash victims were on Tuesday joined by religious leaders and political leaders to mourn their loved ones.

The event, which was held at the Londiani trading centre, was characterised by overwhelming emotions as mourners wept over the tragedy.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who was among the several leaders who attended the interdenominational prayer service watched glumly as those who spoke narrated about the ordeal.

At the podium was a wreath of fresh flowers and 52 candles to signify the departed souls.

It remained lit throughout the session.

Family members and friends of the deceased held portrait photos of their loved ones close to their chests even as they struggled to come to terms with the loss.

A team from Red Cross who were present had a tough time containing the situation.

At least 52 people were killed with scores injured in the Friday evening, accident that involved a truck and several passenger vehicles.

One of those who lost akin narrated how it was difficult for them to identify the body at the morgue after the accident.

"It was something that you cannot imagine, bodies were strewn all over... it was painful to view and even recognize because of the severe injuries they had sustained," said Joseph Mwangi who lost his brother. 

Mwangi explained that he was attending a crusade when he received a phone call about the accident.

He used the opportunity to appeal for support from the government to have the children of the deceased continue with their studies.

Another woman who identified herself as Faith said she lost her husband who had gone to the centre about his daily duties to find food for the family only to fail to return home as usual.

"We know God is in control and I thank God because my husband was born again...I know with prayers and encouragement we shall overcome," she said.

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai said they are deeply wounded and heartbroken by the incident.

"We have mourned, we have cried and we have asked God to give us the grace to overcome the loss," he said.

Mutai also announced that his county will waive mortuary fees for all 52.

While appealing for financial support from the national government, the Governor said out of the 14 patients who are currently hospitalised in Nakuru and Kericho hospitals, 10 will have their legs amputated and may not have their lives normal again.

"Your excellency, most of these people used to sell along the road and their lives will not be the same again once they come back...we are requesting that you set some funds to help them," Mutai said.

On his part, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang said they are willing to work with the road agencies to create safe spaces for motorists and pedestrians in all trading centres along the highways.

Present were National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, CSs Kipchumba Murkomen (Transport), Susan Wafula (Health) and Florence Bore (Labour). 

Others were Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, Kericho Senator and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruyiot.