Senators have intensified calls for a comprehensive investigation into the tragic dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls’ Academy, where 16 students lost their lives, urging authorities to establish the exact cause of the incident without delay.
The Upper House also took time to honour the deceased learners, with lawmakers expressing deep sympathy for the affected families while pressing for accountability as investigations continue.
During a heated and emotional debate, senators called for stronger action against any individuals found responsible for the tragedy, stressing that justice must be fully served.
While acknowledging the swift response by law enforcement, some lawmakers argued that accountability should extend beyond the students already facing charges, insisting that school administrators and other responsible parties should also be investigated if negligence is proven.
Autopsy reports confirmed that the victims died from severe burn injuries, highlighting the intensity of the blaze and underscoring the urgency of determining how the fire started and spread so rapidly.
So far, nine students from the institution have been arrested and charged in connection with the incident, a development that has sparked national debate and raised further questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The matter was brought before the Senate through a request for a statement by Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana, who also raised broader concerns over recurring fire incidents in Kenyan schools.
She cited the Utumishi Girls’ Academy fire in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which occurred on May 28, 2026, and compared it with previous tragedies, including the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire in September 2024, calling for stronger preventive measures across learning institutions.
