Wetang’ula pledges stronger road safety laws after Bungoma tragedy

News · Bradley Bosire · March 11, 2026
Wetang’ula pledges stronger road safety laws after Bungoma tragedy
In Summary

The Malaha Junction accident has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations, better driver discipline, and improved infrastructure along major transport corridors in Kenya.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Members of Parliament to strengthen legislation governing Kenya’s transport sector, following a deadly road accident at Malaha Junction in Webuye Sub-County that claimed 15 lives.

Speaking from Bungoma on Wednesday morning, Wetang’ula expressed deep concern over the rising number of road accidents across the country.

“Road carnage continues to claim many lives, and as a nation, we must urgently address this menace,” he said.

The Speaker condemned the recklessness of the truck driver involved in the Malaha Junction crash.

“We condemn the recklessness of the truck driver who caused 15 deaths in this tragic accident. It is devastating to learn that more than 21 people are currently admitted to various hospitals, with two requiring urgent specialized treatment,” he noted.

The National Government, in collaboration with the Bungoma County Government, has arranged for the referral of the two critically injured patients to facilities capable of providing advanced care.

Wetang’ula also urged the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to act swiftly to remove dangerous drivers from the roads.

“I urge our courts to pay attention to what is happening in our society. If you don’t deserve to be on the roads, then keep off. If you are on the road and don’t pay attention, you deserve punishment,” he emphasized.

He further assured that President William Ruto has committed government support to the bereaved families and injured victims.

The County Government will cater for medical expenses for all those admitted to hospitals following the crash.

A funeral committee has been formed to coordinate burial arrangements for the victims. The committee will be led by Webuye East MP Martin Wanyonyi Pepela and Bungoma Woman Representative Catherine Wambilianga, with support from Bungoma Deputy Governor Janepher Chemtai Mbatiany and Members of the County Assembly.

Isaac, a resident affected by the tragedy, said he lost his wife in the crash and that his father and brother, who sustained fractures and other injuries, remain hospitalized.

“I lost my wife on the spot. My other brother had stomach injuries. We are seeking support from well-wishers and hope the government will redesign the road,” he said.

Doctors at Webuye County Referral Hospital have conducted postmortems on six victims and are awaiting to perform the same on seven more bodies preserved at the facility.

Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. David Wanikina said at least two male patients will require specialized treatment.

“We are still receiving more patients from the accident scene, some of whom had been rushed to other facilities and are now being referred here,” Dr. Wanikina said.

He added that the hospital has partnered with the Kenya Red Cross to provide psychosocial support to survivors and families affected by the tragedy.

A special mass has been scheduled for Monday, 16th March 2026, in Webuye town to pray for the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to those still undergoing treatment.

The Malaha Junction accident has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations, better driver discipline, and improved infrastructure along major transport corridors in Kenya.

Speaker Wetang’ula stressed that Parliament will work to tighten the rules governing the sector to prevent further loss of life.

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