This archive report was first published on 21 July 2019.
On June 8, 2019, DP William Ruto tweeted his condolences after the tragic accident that took the life of 7-year-old Sidney Mambala, who was knocked down by a car in his convoy in Budalang'i, Busia.
However, one month later, the parents of the deceased boy say that calls to the Deputy President's office go unanswered, and he has failed to honor his promise of assistance.
"Hajawahi receive simu. Napiga simu hazishikwi. Mimi nasikia uchungu sana kumpoteza mtoto wa kwanza," the father, Felix Mambala said.
The family was promised a job, financial assistance for their salon business, and a house, but they live in a mud hut in Mulwanda village.
DP Ruto's office confirmed that no assistance has been accorded to the family since Sidney's death as the matter is still pending in court.
The family insists that some compensation for Sidney's death would give them reprieve.
"DP afanye vile aliahidi. Kama hangekuja budalangi (Sidney) hangekufa," he added.
"Huyo mtoto angekuwa mtu mkubwa akuje atusaidie budalangi mzima," Godfrey Okesa, a neighbor, told Citizen TV.
