The probe into the tragic death of a three-year-old child at Longisa Hospital in Bomet continues with health officials visiting the facility to piece together information.
The officials led by Health CEC Joseph Sitonik and Chief Officer Felix Langat are trying to establish the circumstances under which Diana Chepngeno died after being stung by bees.
This happens even as local leaders pile pressure on the county leadership to take responsibility over the death as allegations emerge that she succumbed to the bites due to negligence on the part of the medics.
In an official statement, the Department of Health Services expressed deep regret over the incident.
"We deeply regret the tragic passing of young Diana Chepngeno after being attended to at Longisa Hospital. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time," the statement read.
Governor Hillary Barchok said Tuesday that an independent investigation by the County Assembly and Medical Board is currently ongoing.
“I assure the public that we are committed to a transparent, fair, and thorough review,” he said.
Sitonik further stated that changes would be implemented to address identified shortcomings, strengthen emergency response protocols, and elevate patient care standards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
According to the child's aunt, Joan Cherotich, Diana and three other children were rushed to Longisa Hospital after being stung by bees while playing at their home in Koitabai village.
Cherotich recounted that although the children were given an injection, they were left unattended despite showing signs of worsening conditions, such as facial swelling and visible discomfort.
“We asked for a transfer to Tenwek Hospital for specialised treatment but were only released after several hours,” Cherotich explained.
By the time they reached Tenwek, Diana's condition had deteriorated, and she was pronounced dead on arrival.
The family has accused the Longisa medical staff of failing to adequately address the children's pain, assuming the effects of the stings would resolve without intervention.
This oversight, they claim, contributed to Diana's death.
The incident, captured in an amateur video circulating on social media, has put the hospital under intense scrutiny and raised serious questions about the facility's operational standards.
The video, which shows Diana in pain while nurses are seen gathered around a computer engaged in conversation, has sparked widespread outrage within the community and among local leaders, who are now demanding answers and accountability.
This case has intensified calls for improved healthcare practices in the county and has become a topic for discussions about the quality and responsiveness of medical services in the region.
