Atwoli to police: Expedite probe into Hillside fire tragedy

A fire raged through the dormitory of the boarding school killing 17 pupils

In Summary
  • “May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may their families find comfort and strength during this time of sorrow.” 

  • Atwoli said the loss of young lives, filled with hope and promise, is an unimaginable tragedy that has left the entire nation in mourning.

Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli .
Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli .
Image: PCS /FIE

Central Organisation of Trade Unions has urged the police to expedite investigations into the cause of the fire tragedy at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri.

Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli while mourning the tragic death of at least 17 boys, said it is important to establish the circumstances that led to the incident to prevent such occurrences in the future.

“The safety of our children, who are the future of our nation, must always be a top priority,” he stated.

In a statement to newsrooms, Atwoli said Cotu will fully support any initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety standards in schools to ensure that no family endures such a devastating loss again.

He wished a quick and full recovery to those who suffered serious injuries.

“Our thoughts are with the students who are currently receiving medical care, and we hope that they find the strength and resilience to heal from both their physical and emotional wounds,” he said.

“May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may their families find comfort and strength during this time of sorrow.” 

Atwoli said the loss of young lives, filled with hope and promise, is an unimaginable tragedy that has left the entire nation in mourning.

“We stand in solidarity with the affected families, offering our prayers and support as they navigate through this period of immense grief,” he stated.

The fire raged through the dormitory of the boarding school killing 17 boys who were sleeping.

More than 150 pupils were in the dormitory when it caught fire on Thursday around midnight.

President William Ruto has instructed authorities to investigate the “horrific incident” and hold those responsible to account.

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