Traders from Chepilat township in Nyamira county now want the government to compensate them following Friday’s tragic accident that involved a Nairobi bound track carrying timber and a matatu, leading to loss of lives and mass loss of property.
Speaking on Sunday, a day after leaders from both Nyamira and Bomet counties visited the affected families, the traders led by Mr Samson Nyamweya accused the Kenya National Highway Authorities (KeNHA) for failing to take precautions despite them reporting the danger posed by the highway to the residents.
They claimed to have written to Nyamira county government to intervene and have bumps put on the highway but no measures were taken.
“We are sad that we lost seven of our loved ones in the accident and incurred many loses. The vehicle completely destroyed our structures along the road and demolished many other shops. We want compensation from the government for failing to take precautions,” Nyamweya said.
They threatened to boycott paying taxes until they are assured of compensation to put their lives on track and gave the KeNHA to immediately put bumps along the busy highway.
“As businessmen from this region, we are tax compliant and we will boycott remitting any taxes until we are compensated of these huge loses. We also want the Kenya National Highway Authority to ensure bumps are put along this township because this is not the first time we are losing lives and properties through accidents,” he added.
The accident had left seven people dead with scores rushed to the nearby Kapkatek District Hospital and those in critical conditions referred to Kisii Referral Hospital.