Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has called out the national government for the ongoing demolition of houses in the Mradi area in his constituency.
In a statement published on his social media pages on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, the vocal lawmaker said that the demolition has left many of his constituents homeless.
Additionally, Babu Owino said that it is sad for the government to allow the demolition of houses at Mradi yet at the same time they are promoting the construction of affordable housing.
“My people have been left homeless and it pains me to see children, women and men lose their homes. Sad indeed,” Babu stated.
“It’s so sad for the Government to allow the demolition of Houses at Mradi in Embakasi East yet At the same time they are promoting the construction of affordable housing.”
Mradi fire
The demolition comes after a February 2, 2024, gas explosion in the same area that left scores homeless, and others injured as others succumbed to burn injuries.
Police said that the incident occurred after a lorry loaded with gas at a suspected unauthorised station exploded, igniting a huge fire that spread to other buildings.
Over 60 individuals were injured following the incident, and others succumbed to burn injuries.
Following the incident, President William Ruto ordered immediate investigations, which led to several arrests and the closure of the facility.
Babu Owino speaks
Owino, who spoke to the media at Kentainers Company near Kabansora in Embakasi, where the blast happened, expressed the magnitude of the tragedy.
“The fire destroyed properties, so many houses and businesses have been destroyed. A lot has happened. This is a great incident that has taken us back because people have lost lives, over 270 people are at different hospitals and nearby dispensaries,” Babu expressed.
“There is still a search going on to find any missing bodies in various houses. And we are asking Kenyans to pray for us. We are asking for your prayers as Embakasi East residents after an explosion that consumed several lives and brought over 300 people to hospitals with serious injuries.”
