Opposition leader Raila Odinga has challenged the government to resettle and compensate the victims of the gas explosion that occurred last Friday at Mradi area in Embakasi, Nairobi.
Speaking at the scene of the tragedy on Tuesday, Odinga said the government should give Ksh.500,000 to each of the affected families to cushion them from the misery brought upon them by the fire incident.
“We want every family here given Ksh.500,000. That is what will enable them to begin a new life. I want to tell President Ruto to address this issue and ensure every family gets Ksh.500,000,” said Odinga.
Further, Mr Odinga demanded that the displaced families be resettled in the already constructed houses under the government’s affordable housing project.
The opposition leader faulted the government for allowing the plant to operate in a residential area which was bound to cause harm to citizens.
“People are sleeping on their jobs while the lives of Kenyans are in danger. If it was the Azimio government in place right now things would be very different. Those culpable for this incident should have already faced action. Investigations should not take more than 48 hours. We already know where the mistake was,” said Odinga.
Odinga cast doubt on the ongoing investigations into the explosion saying it would not be a surprise to see the owner of the plant walking scot-free.
Four people including three officials of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the owner of the gas plant which was operating illegally have since been arrested in connection to the incident.
The four were presented in court on Tuesday with the prosecution seeking 21 days to detain them pending the conclusion of investigations.
