National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for stricter aviation safety measures and greater caution in the use of helicopters following the crash that killed Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngéno and three others.
He urged Parliament to urgently re-examine the rules governing air travel, saying tighter controls are needed to prevent further loss of life.
Speaking on Tuesdsy, the Speaker warned pilots, leaders and other users of air services to strictly follow existing safety procedures, especially during unstable weather.
He stressed the importance of proper pre-flight weather checks, avoiding thunderstorms and heavy rain, and observing minimum visibility requirements.
“You need to realise the vagaries of the weather at this particular time. We should consider limiting the use of helicopters,” he cautioned.
Wetang’ula disclosed that he had flown in the same aircraft barely two weeks before the accident, saying the experience underscored the risks linked to air travel during unpredictable weather.
He challenged lawmakers to review the current aviation framework and push for stronger safeguards. “In other parts of the world, no helicopter can take off unless cleared by the aviation authority. We need to improve on the existing framework and have more robust regulations,” he said.
The Speaker emphasised that enforcing safety rules and improving coordination between operators and regulators must take priority over convenience. He maintained that protecting lives should come first at all times.
His remarks came as he led members of the Parliamentary Service Commission and MPs to the Karen residence of the late Ngéno to console his widow, Nayianoi Ntutu, and the extended family ahead of the burial.
Paying tribute to the third-term legislator, Wetang’ula described him as a committed servant leader whose contribution to Parliament would endure. “This is a tragic happening. Parliament has lost one of its finest leaders,” he said.
He noted that throughout his time in the National Assembly, Ngéno had not faced disciplinary action and had carried out his duties with diligence. The Speaker singled out his role as Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works, saying the committee was instrumental in the passage of the Affordable Housing Act, 2024.
“It is also unfortunate that he met his death while undertaking public duty beyond his constituency. As Parliament, we celebrate the life of one of us,” he added.
Wetang’ula informed MPs that he had directed the tabling of a special motion to formally honour Ngéno’s life and service in the House. He also suspended Wednesday morning’s sitting to allow lawmakers to attend a memorial service for the four victims at the Africa Gospel Church in Karen.
The four will be buried on Friday, March 6, 2026, in Emurua Dikirr Constituency, Narok County, while burial plans for the pilot will be announced later.
The Parliamentary Service Commission assured the bereaved families of full support to ensure a respectful send-off for their loved ones.
