REPORT BY THE OMBUDSMAN, KENYA ON INVESTIGATIONS INTO THE CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING THE ACCIDENT INVOLVING THE RIOMA SECONDARY SCHOOL BUS ON JULY 10, 2013

Abstract

This investigation was initiated suo motu after highlights by media between10th to 12th July, 2013. The CAJ undertook broad investigation into matters surrounding the accident. In particular, the Commission sought to look into issues of inefficiency, ineptitude, incompetence and any other forms of omissions or commissions as would be classified as maladministration on the part of those public officials who were entrusted with the organization of the games within Marani Division of Kisii County. Specifically, investigation surrounded issues related to:- - Nepotism and irregular hiring of the driver of the ill-fated bus - Allegation of incompetence by the driver. - Alleged overloading and un-roadworthiness of the Rioma Secondary School Bus. - Allegation that the bus was over speeding - Allegation of un-responsive traffic officers who did not take action on the driver for overloading and over speeding - Flouting Transportation Safety rules by school administrators/committees. - Compensation for the injured and to the next of kin for those who died - Payment of charges for extra-curricular activities which are otherwise supposed to be provided for by the government under free and compulsory education policy The process of undertaking investigations into the said allegations included holding interviews with members of staff of Marani District Education Office (DEO), the police, school heads, teachers, students, parents and next of kin of the deceased. In addition, CAJ obtained relevant documents from various government and private sources necessary for the investigations. The investigations were conducted independently by the Directorate of Research and Investigations. Dr. Richard Belio Kipsang, the Principal Secretary Ministry of Education was notified of the investigations through a letter dated 7th August, 2013