The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) has raised concerns over disaster preparedness in schools following the deadly dormitory fire at Utumishi Academy Senior School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, that claimed the lives of 16 students.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday, DCP Secretary General John Methu sent his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and questioned whether learning institutions are adequately prepared to handle emergencies.
“We condole with the families that have lost their loved one. We question the disaster preparedness in our schools,” Methu said.
He blamed the government for what he described as poor coordination during emergencies and called for the resignation of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
According to Methu, the response to disasters in the country is often treated as a secondary issue instead of a priority.
“The function of disaster response is treated as an afterthought by this government,” he said, adding that leaders must take responsibility whenever such incidents occur.
Methu also questioned the safety standards in schools, noting that Utumishi Academy is located close to security installations.
He argued that such a tragedy should not have happened in an area with heavy security presence.
The DCP official urged Parliament to fast-track the Disaster Preparedness Bill, saying stronger laws and systems could help reduce the impact of future disasters in schools.
He further linked the incident to previous school fires, including the Endarasha Academy tragedy, saying many past incidents have not received clear public reports on their causes.
The government has since launched investigations into the fire, which broke out at around 12.45am in a dormitory on the second floor.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said 79 students were injured, with most already discharged from hospital.
Murkomen, who visited the school together with Ogamba, appealed to the public to avoid speculation as investigations continue.
The school has been closed temporarily to allow authorities to complete investigations and review safety compliance measures.
