Leaders Blame Poor Workmanship in Kisii Tragedy That Claimed Five Live
The Mt Kenya Times 
Photo of tragic collapse of a five-storey building in Iterio, Suneka, Kisii
By Elizabeth Angira
Leaders in Kisii County are demanding swift investigations and action following the tragic collapse of a five-storey building in Iterio, Suneka, which claimed five lives and left four others injured.
The building, which was under construction, came crashing down on Sunday, trapping construction workers and nearby residents.
Four people were rushed to local hospitals
Kisii Governor Simba Arati expressed his condolences to the affected families and issued a stern warning to those responsible for negligence.
“My deepest condolences go out to the families of those who lost their loved ones. I also wish a quick recovery to those injured. Once investigations are complete, those found culpable must face legal consequences,” said Governor Arati
Bonchari Constituency political leader Jonah Onkendi criticized what he termed as the negligence and laxity of officers tasked with enforcing safety standards in the construction sector
“It is utterly unconscionable that such a dangerous and unstable structure was allowed to rise under the watch of authorities,” he said.
“I specifically call out the county inspectorate and other critical departments for their alarming inaction.”
Onkndi also blamed the National Construction Authority (NCA) and the County Planning Department for failing to enforce compliance with building codes, accusing them of gross incompetence or even possible corruption.
He pointed out that the tragedy is part of a worrying pattern of systemic failure in the county
“Only eight weeks ago, a student died after falling into a poorly constructed pit latrine in Mwembe. Just three weeks later, an expectant mother lost her life in Magena due to alleged negligence by healthcare staff,” he noted.
“These recurring and preventable tragedies paint a grim picture of a blatant disregard for human life.
Onkendi called for a prompt, transparent, and impartial investigation to ensure justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible.
Members of the County Assembly, John Ombati (Bomorenda) and Ismael Bosire (Bogiakumu), echoed the call for investigations.
They demanded answers regarding the quality of materials used in the building and the credentials of professionals overseeing the project.
Ombati warned investors against substandard construction, labeling it a serious risk to public safety.
“The government must investigate the engineers, supervisors, and contractors involved. It is shameful to endanger lives for the sake of profit,” he said.
“We want the contractor’s license revoked and stern action taken to deter others from engaging in such dangerous practices.
He also urged the public to report shoddy construction in their neighborhoods to prevent further tragedies.
Onkendi concluded by insisting that those whose actions or inactions led to the loss of lives must be held accountable.
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