The presentation of the driver of an ill-fated bus involved in a tragic road accident along the Nakuru-Eldoret Highway before court sparked jitters among a section of Kenyans.
In a video footage seen by The Kenya Times, Clement Kiarie was presented at the Molo Law Courts on Thursday, January 11 to face charges following the tragic accident that left 15 people dead and scores injured.
However, the driver was seen to be still in a critical health condition as he was being led to the law courts.
Kiarie, who had a broken arm, struggled to get out of the police vehicle that had ferried him at the Molo Law Courts.
After disembarking from the vehicle, the driver who seemed to be in pain as he struggled to walk, was escorted to the court chambers by national police officers.
The video has since sparked an uproar among Kenyans, with a section highly concerned at the level of treatment Kiarie received from the law enforcers.
Concerned Kenyans
Tony Betin, a concerned social media user noted, “I understand that’s how the systems works but the guy is not stable at the moment.”
Also Read: NTSA Explains Blunder That Killed 15 People in a Crash
On the other hand, another user reacted to the video questioning why the driver was not given enough time to nurse his injuries.
“They should have given him time to heal. This man is still unstable physically and mentally,” said Ken Lordd.
Another user while echoing Ken’s words noted, “He seems to be in pain and needs medical attention before the hearing.”
Also, other users online were concerned about the inhumane treatment Kiarie received despite being the main suspect behind the tragic accident.
“Surely, the man is in pain. Even if he is on the wrong, the guy is traumatized and needs counselling,” noted Jeddinval.
Questioning the manner in which the driver was presented at the Law Courts, another user went on to call out the police officers.
Auma Loren reacted, “First, they ought to have given him a wheelchair. He is still unwell and needs counselling. What’s wrong with some people surely?”
Another user also questioned, “Can’t he just be treated in a humane manner? Maybe aid him with a wheelchair?”
Also, other users were left wondering why the Court could not have taken alternative options for the prosecution.
“This is so wrong. Why can’t they give him time to heal or rather do a virtual session while he is receiving medication?” posed Miss Reeves.
Also Read: Content Creator Mulamwah Narrates Last Moments Before Road Accident
Driver charged
Following the accident, Kiarie was arrested and detained at the Mau Summit Police Station.
The driver however went on to appear before Molo Principal Magistrate Daisy Mosse where he was charged with several counts.
Kiarie, also known for his name Taylor, was first charged with fifteen counts of causing death.
He was also charged with 1 count of contravening the use of insurance, 1 charge of reckless driving and another charge for carrying 41 uninsured passengers.
The driver further denied the charges and was released on a Ksh.1 million bond, with the matter set to be mentioned on January 29.
Acknowledging his condition, the magistrate ruled, “The accused needs to be taken for treatment, I can see he is visibly injured,” the magistrate ruled.
NTSA on Accident
The National Transportation and Safety Authority (NTSA) blamed the driver for the accident that happened on January 9.
NTSA said the crash was a result of dangerous overtaking by the Classic Kings of Congo bus driver.
“Preliminary crash analysis indicates that the incident is attributed to lane indiscipline and dangerous overtaking on the part of the Bus driver leading to a head on collision with the Northways Sacco matatu,” read part of NTSA statement.
