Eugene Mutuku/COURTESY
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has called for urgent investigations into the death of a man reported to be a final-year medical student, Eugene Mutuku, who died following a tragic incident involving a public service vehicle along Thika Road.
Passaris said she was “utterly heartbroken” by the circumstances surrounding the death of the student, who was attached to a facility in Kasarani for his clinical training.
Reports indicate that Mutuku sustained fatal injuries after he was allegedly thrown from a moving public service vehicle and run over along Thika Road.
He was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
In her statement, the lawmaker said the tragedy had raised serious questions about passenger safety and the conduct of public service vehicle operators.
“As we await the outcome of investigations, one thing is clear: no disagreement over fare, conduct, or any other issue can justify putting a passenger’s life at risk,” she said.
Passaris noted that while the transport sector faces operational challenges, the safety of passengers must remain paramount under all circumstances.
“We understand the challenges faced by those in the transport business. However, if there was any reason to remove or eject a passenger from a vehicle, it should never be done while the vehicle is in motion. Human life must always come before any dispute,” she added.
She urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other relevant security agencies to expedite investigations into the incident, secure evidence and ensure accountability.
“I call upon the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and all relevant law enforcement agencies to move swiftly, thoroughly investigate this matter, secure all available evidence, record witness statements, and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice,” she said.
Passaris also extended her condolences to the bereaved family, friends and colleagues of the deceased student, describing his death as a painful loss.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Eugene’s family, friends, fellow students, and all those mourning this painful loss,” she said.
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation from leaders and members of the public, who have questioned how such a tragedy could unfold in a vehicle carrying several passengers in broad daylight.
Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina described the incident as a painful reflection of society’s declining moral standards and disregard for human life.
“We have such a morally depraved society,” she said.
“If a student can be thrown out of a moving PSV, in the full glare of the people who were near him, for being unable to pay Ksh20, may the good Lord have mercy on us.”
She added that the country must confront the broader question of public safety and responsibility, saying the tragedy represented a failure to protect young lives.
