Emotional sendoff for six family members killed in an accident

Six decorated caskets, carrying three adults and three children who tragically died in an accident on March 30 on the Naivasha-Mai Mahiu Road, were displayed during their burial ceremony in Eburru, Gilgil, Nakuru County.

The caskets for two sisters, aged 15 and 12, were painted white, while the other four, containing their eight-year-old brother, their father and two uncles, were painted brown.

The family, staring at portraits displayed on each of the caskets, was overcome with disbelief, shock and tears. Leaders, friends and residents gathered to pay their last respects.

Felista Njeri could hardly speak as she buried her husband, Francis Muturi, her two daughters, and son. She also lost two brothers-in-law Peter Mwangi, 40, and George Ngugi, 20.

Relatives and residents gathered for the ceremony, standing in silence as six caskets and portraits were displayed.

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Emotions ran high as family and friends recalled the final moments of the six, who died alongside Muturi’s house help child, in the tragic accident.

“We remember how we sang together, praising and worshiping God,” said one relative before singing the song.

Overcome with emotions, the relative was helped back to his seat. The pattern continued as the family struggled to read tributes and eulogies, with friends stepping in to read on their behalf.

Other relatives described the family as special, caring, and loving. A preacher described Muturi as a generous man, even raising the child of his house help.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who called during the burial, said that Kenya had lost seven lives, and the entire nation was in mourning.

Gachagua could not resist making a political remark, explaining that he was unable to attend the burial due to disruptions and chaos at recent events he had attended.

“We have an issue with goons sent to my functions. However, we mourn with the family and pray they find strength to persevere," Gachagua said.

Limuru MP John Kiragu said that the family was in urgent need of assistance, as Njeri had been ill and in hospital. He stressed that without support, those left behind would face great difficulties.  

He also called on residents to support the government's initiative to construct the Rironi-Mau Summit four-lane road, to reduce accidents.

Kiragu also called on residents to back the government's initiative to construct the Rironi-Mau Summit four-lane road, aiming to reduce accidents.

Gilgil MP Martha Wangari called on the government to ensure the road is constructed and completed soon.

She urged politicians to respect families during burial ceremonies and even went ahead to deny chances to Nakuru MCAS, including Naivasha East MCA Stanley Karanja.

Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara consoled the widow, left in pain and misery. She said there was a need for Kenyans to support each other. Nakuru Women Rep Liza Chelule called for peace.

Edward Gitonga, the Chairperson Speed Governors and Road Safety Association regretted that accidents from private vehicles had increased.

“Last year, 3,500 were killed in an accident involving private vehicles. Authorities have to enforce the law,” said Gitonga.

He also pointed out that in the last month, over 30 people died in Migaa, Bomet and Mai Mahiu, due to accidents.

“If the authorities do not enforce road safety regulations, including inspecting vehicles, people will continue dying,” he said.