Uhuru tells police to act tough on careless drivers

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  • “I urge drivers to observe traffic regulations in order to ensure road safety during this season. In the meantime, police must show no sympathy to those who violate the law,” Mr Kenyatta added.

President Uhuru Kenyatta has asked traffic police to act tough on users who violate road rules during the festive season.

He also warned citizens against driving under the influence of alcohol during the Christmas season. 

Seventeen Kenyans have been killed and 61 others injured when two buses collided in the 4am Tuesday accident in Mtito Andei on Mombasa road.

“Let us banish careless driving, excessive alcohol consumption and other socially unacceptable behaviour. Security agencies must do all in their power to ensure a secure Kenya and therefore guarantee peaceful Christmas celebrations,” said the Head of State in a post on his Facebook page.

Police have been challenged to be tough on those violating the new regulations and other rules governing road use.   

“I urge drivers to observe traffic regulations in order to ensure road safety during this season. In the meantime, police must show no sympathy to those who violate the law,” Mr Kenyatta added.

Last week, the Ministry of Transport gazetted tougher road rules meant to curb carnage especially during the festive season when there is a lot of movement on the roads.

The poor

Further, he asked Christians to remember the poor during the festive season and share with them the gifts that will come their way.

He said doing so would be a welcome demonstration of what Christmas really means. 

“One of the best ways of reciprocating God’s goodness to mankind is to help the less fortunate among us. Please spread the gifts, smiles, warmth, and cheer this Christmas,” the President said in a post on his Facebook page.

Deputy President William Ruto asked Kenyans to take stock of what the country has achieved this year. 

“During this festive season, I join my fellow countrymen in thanksgiving not just for the year that has been but also for the journey we, as a country, have taken in the last 50 years since Independence. Let us all spare a moment and take stock of the good around us whilst denying the bad a chance to overwhelm us as we enter 2014,” the DP said.

Raila

Cord leader Raila Odinga also challenged Kenyans to be more vigilant on the roads to avert loss of lives during the festive season.

“I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of my family, to wish Kenyans a Merry Christmas and a joyous festive season. Do not drink and drive, do not speed and be watchful on the roads. I urge moderation at this time especially among road users. Let us all enjoy responsibly,” said the former Prime Minister on his Twitter account.

The former PM also condoled with the families of people who died in a grisly road accident Tuesday morning in Mtito Andei.