British Pensioner Killed in Hit-and-Run by Kenyan President’s Motorcade
Edgar Charles Frederick, a British pensioner, was killed in a hit-and-run involving Kenyan President William Ruto’s motorcade. The incident occurred on a main road in Nairobi, with witnesses reporting he was struck by two vehicles. Following the incident, an investigation was launched, resulting in the driver’s arrest. The case has drawn public outrage but received limited local media attention.
A tragic hit-and-run incident involving the motorcade of Kenyan President William Ruto has resulted in the death of 79-year-old British pensioner Edgar Charles Frederick. The incident occurred on a major road in Nairobi on Thursday as Mr. Ruto was touring the capital. Witnesses reported that Mr. Frederick was struck first by one vehicle and then run over by another from the convoy, continuing without stopping to assist him.
Subsequent video footage captured the aftermath, showing Mr. Frederick lying on the road, severely injured and bleeding. Authorities have stated that they have initiated an investigation and taken into custody the driver of a support vehicle associated with President Ruto’s convoy. This vehicle, which is part of the regional administration, was offering logistical support to the presidential motorcade.
The Kenyan presidential convoy is known for its speed, with police often clearing traffic in advance for its passage. Mr. Frederick was visiting family, including his sister and nephew, and reportedly had hearing difficulties, raising concerns that he may not have heard the approaching motorcade or any warnings from the police.
Despite the incident, President Ruto continued his public engagements, making light of his situation half an hour post-incident by joking with crowds about his new nickname “El Chapo” for his plans to launch a machine promising one million chapatis daily for a school-feeding initiative. This comes amid Ruto’s efforts to regain public favor after heightened tensions with police following the fatal shooting of protesters last year.
Social media erupted in response to the tragic event, although it received limited coverage in local media. Local politician Robert Alai reacted to public outcry by stating, “People die every day. Let it go!” The unnamed driver involved in the incident was subsequently released on cash bail after his arrest. Meanwhile, the government vehicle involved in the incident is undergoing testing at a police facility.
Police spokesman Michael Muchiri confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and adequate measures are being taken regarding the driver, who is currently awaiting court arraignment. Additionally, a spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office mentioned, “We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Kenya and are in contact with the local authorities.”
The tragic death of Edgar Charles Frederick in a hit-and-run involving President Ruto’s convoy has raised significant concerns regarding road safety and the conduct of political motorcades in Nairobi. Despite ongoing investigations, the public’s anger and the government’s response reflect a broader issue of accountability for such incidents. The Foreign Office’s support for Mr. Frederick’s family highlights the international dimension of the tragedy, which has sparked social outrage and demands for justice.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
