Gov’t to cover burial costs for Ishiara protest victims

The government has pledged to cover funeral expenses for two young men who were fatally shot by police during community protests in Embu on Tuesday over the deplorable state of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital.

Mbeere North Member of Parliament Leonard Wamuthende announced while visiting the grieving families of Morris Mugo and Patrick Kariuki, who tragically lost their lives during the demonstrations.

“As an MP for Mbeere North, I came to offer my condolences and assure the families that the government will stand with them during this difficult time,” he said.

He revealed plans to pursue justice and compensation for the affected families alongside legal experts to ensure they receive proper redress.

The MP further reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing justice and ensuring accountability, saying he will not relent in safeguarding the rights and dignity of his people.

“While no compensation can replace a life, I will work with lawyers and the government to ensure these families receive justice and fair compensation,” he added.

Wamuthende also confirmed that he has formally written to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), urging a thorough investigation into the incident.

“We are awaiting IPOA’s findings so that those responsible can be prosecuted and held accountable,” he said.

At the same time, the MP cautioned fellow politicians against exploiting the tragedy for political gain, warning that mourning periods should not be turned into political platforms.

“I call upon both political leaders and members of the public to refrain from politicising this tragedy. This is a moment for compassion and justice for the victims and their families,” the MP said.

Funeral arrangements are currently underway for the two young men, with discussions ongoing about holding a joint burial.

On Tuesday, police responded to a demonstration by area residents, where tension reportedly escalated when police officers attempted to disperse the crowd. Witnesses claim that officers fired live bullets, fatally injuring two demonstrators.

Several others are said to have sustained injuries in the chaos, with some rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment.

The protests, largely led by youth in Ishiara, were sparked by concerns over deteriorating services at the facility, including a lack of drugs, inadequate staffing and poor service delivery.

According to eyewitness accounts, demonstrators marched along major roads chanting slogans and carrying placards calling for reforms in the health sector before the situation escalated when police attempted to disperse the crowd.

The National Police Service had earlier confirmed the deaths, terming the incident a “regrettable loss of life.” It claimed the protest had been infiltrated by criminal elements armed with crude weapons.