Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on the judiciary to lift court orders blocking new road safety measures, following a deadly accident that claimed 16 lives along the Nyeri–Nyahururu highway.
Speaking during an interdenominational requiem service held at ASK Kabiru-ini Grounds in Nyeri County, Kindiki said the government had introduced strict enforcement measures aimed at reducing road fatalities, but their implementation had been halted by court injunctions.
“Last week, we lost 16 people and six others were critically injured in a terrible road crash along the Nyeri–Nyahururu highway near Dedan Kimathi University,” Kindiki said.
He noted that the government had rolled out new interventions, including installation of speed cameras, instant fines for traffic offenders, and strict penalty systems for drivers involved in fatal accidents.
“To suppress the escalation of road fatalities and improve safety on our roads, we introduced far-reaching enforcement measures. Unfortunately, the courts issued an injunction against their implementation,” he stated.
Kindiki appealed to the judiciary to allow the measures to proceed even as legal proceedings continue.
“The government appeals to the judiciary to lift the interim orders or allow implementation of these measures as the case is heard on merit,” he added.
The Deputy President attended the ceremony to mourn the victims and comfort bereaved families. He later visited survivors receiving treatment at Nyeri Level 5 Hospital.
“We are here to stand with the families during this difficult time and to offer our prayers and support to those injured,” he said.
The event was attended by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, several Members of Parliament, clergy, and senior government officials, who joined the community in honoring the victims.
The tragic accident has reignited national debate on road safety, with authorities under pressure to implement stricter measures to curb rising fatalities on Kenyan roads.
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