This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
On September 23, 2019, a devastating tragedy struck Precious Talent School in Dagoretti, leaving eight pupils dead after a classroom collapsed. The incident sparked a visit from Deputy President William Ruto, who promised an audit of school safety to prevent similar incidents.
However, the tragedy also presented an opportunity for Tanga Tanga politicians to exploit the situation for political gain. Barely an hour after the collapse, area MP John Kiarie, a Tanga Tanga MP, visited the scene but was met with anger from irate residents who accused him of being absent in his constituency.
Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga was quick to capitalize on the tragedy, holding a political rally in Dagoretti amidst the chaos. Deputy President Ruto later visited the victims at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), sending condolences to the families of the deceased.
Education CS Prof. George Magoha attributed the tragedy to malpractice in the construction of the ill-fated two-storey structure. He stated that the owners of the school had constructed an additional floor without seeking approval, putting the pupils' lives in danger.
Prof. Magoha emphasized that the tragedy would have been avoided had the rules been followed. He also directed that Precious Talent School be closed for a week as investigations into the tragedy continue.
