Langata Member of Parliament Felix Odiwuor has called for the immediate and total suspension of all construction activities in South C and Nairobi West wards following the collapse of a 16-storey building under construction in South C, warning that continued disregard for safety regulations is putting lives at risk.
The building collapsed at around 5:00 a.m. on Friday along Muhoho Road in South C, Langata Constituency, trapping several people beneath the rubble and triggering a major emergency response.
Rescue teams were immediately deployed to the scene amid fears that workers and other occupants could still be buried under the debris.
“This is a tragic and unacceptable way to begin the year,” Odiwuor said in a statement, expressing deep concern over the incident. “Our greatest concern is the safety of those affected, and we pray that no lives have been lost.”
The legislator demanded a complete halt to all construction activities in the affected areas until authorities verify compliance with building regulations.
“We unequivocally demand the immediate and total suspension of all construction activities in South C and Nairobi West wards,” he said. “This halt must remain in effect until full approvals, safety audits, and compliance verifications are conducted by all relevant authorities.”
Odiwuor warned that repeated violations of construction standards have turned building sites into death traps, calling for firm action to prevent further tragedies.
“The continued disregard for construction regulations and public safety must come to an end before more lives are put at risk,” he said.
As investigations into the cause of the collapse get underway, the MP urged government agencies to handle the matter with urgency and openness. “As investigations proceed, we call upon all responsible agencies to act with urgency, transparency, and accountability,” he said, adding that those found culpable must be held responsible.
Emergency operations continued throughout the day, with the Kenya Red Cross confirming that the area had been secured to allow for coordinated rescue efforts.
“The area has been cordoned off as the National Disaster Management Unit, Nairobi City County, the National Police Service and the Kenya Red Cross continue search and rescue operations,” the humanitarian agency said in a statement.
Heavy machinery and rescue teams were seen combing through the rubble as anxious families gathered nearby, awaiting word on their loved ones. Authorities urged the public to keep away from the site to avoid interfering with rescue efforts.
Addressing affected families, Odiwuor called for calm and solidarity.
“To the families and loved ones affected, we ask you to remain calm and know that the nation stands with you,” he said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we hope for the safe rescue of everyone involved.”
