The victims of the tragic gas filling plant explosion in Embakasi East are seeking justice through legal action against several government agencies and officials.
They accuse these entities of negligence and violating their rights by allowing the unlawful establishment of the gas plant. Among those named in the petition are NEMA, EPRA, the County Government of Nairobi, and the Attorney General, along with specific individuals like the gas tank owner and the Environment and Energy Cabinet Secretaries.
The victims argue that insufficient action has been taken to address the aftermath of the explosion, which resulted in extensive damage to nearby businesses. This legal action reflects the victims’ quest for accountability and redress in the wake of the devastating incident.
“I went back to check on my business – a chapati vending business which was earning me KES 35,000 monthly – and I found that all my tools of trade were missing. I support my mother and sister financially and I have been unable to support them sufficiently since I lost my tools of trade and I am currently trying to recuperate,” said one victim Kennedy Kyalo.
In the wake of the gas filling plant explosion in Embakasi East, affected residents are pursuing legal action, adding to an earlier lawsuit against various government entities and officials.
The plaintiffs in the recent case, represented by Francis Mureithi, allege that NEMA, the Nairobi City County, the Attorney General, EPRA, Maxxis Nairobi Energy, and the Ministry of Energy failed in their duties, resulting in the tragic incident.
The owner of the gas plant, Derrick Kimathi of Maxxis Energy Nairobi Limited, was released on a cash bail of Ksh.500,000 or an alternative bond of Ksh.2 million.
Investigations are ongoing, with statements recorded from 363 witnesses and 265 completed P3 forms from victims, though 30 victims have yet to provide their statements.
The victims are seeking justice and accountability for the explosion that killed over 10 people, injured 300 others, and caused significant damage to nearby businesses. This legal pursuit underscores the community’s demand for redress and heightened safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
