Residents of Kithogondo village in Ngurubani, Kirinyaga County, staged a massive protest on the Mwea-Embu Highway on Wednesday, following the tragic deaths of two children in a road accident involving a speeding miraa truck.
The protest erupted after the fatal incident on Tuesday, where a miraa truck recklessly overtaking another vehicle struck two children on a motorcycle. One child died at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries at the hospital.
Community Takes a Stand
Outraged by the frequent accidents caused by speeding miraa vehicles, residents blocked the highway, allowing only non-miraa vehicles to pass. Police officers from Wanguru Police Station attempted to restore order, but the community stood firm, demanding immediate government intervention.
Peter Murungaru, a local leader, voiced the residents’ grievances:
“We have lost too many lives and witnessed countless injuries due to these reckless miraa trucks. Our repeated calls to the authorities for action have been ignored. We won’t let these trucks pass until justice is served, and we lay our children to rest.”
Reckless Driving Sparks Tragedy
According to witnesses, the miraa truck involved in the accident was heading to Nairobi and overtook another vehicle on a stretch of road marked with speed spikes installed by the Kirinyaga County government to collect cess. The reckless maneuver led to the devastating collision.
Residents Demand Accountability
The protest reflects growing frustration in the region, as this incident is part of a series of accidents blamed on miraa truck drivers.
The community is calling on the government to enforce stricter regulations on miraa trucks, including speed controls and improved driver accountability, to prevent further tragedies.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for measures to enhance road safety and protect the lives of vulnerable road users.
