Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nairobi (Fides Service)- “At this time of deep grief we wish to express our sympathy with the families of those killed, to the chairman and members of the national assembly, the Anglican Church of Kenya, the head of state and the whole nation” the Catholic Bishops of Kenya said in a statement to commemorate the victims of an air crash in Marsabit, 450 km north east of the capital.
On 10 April in thick fog a Y 12 twin engine army aircraft missed the runway at Marsabit airport and crashed on a hillside three kilometres from the city. On board the air craft were 17 people, the crew and MPs and officials on the way to a meeting to settle a water and pasture dispute. Four people including the pilot suffered multiple fractures but managed to escape before the flames enveloped the air craft, but one died before reaching. Among those killed, the Minister for Youth Mohammed Kuti, the under secretary for national security, the under secretary for regional authorities and Anglican Bishop William Waqo.
“Kenya has lost some of its most expert peace builders” the Catholic Bishops of Kenya said in a statement issued by local Catholic news agency CISA. Kenya’s president Mwai Kibaki announced three days national mourning after the worst tragedy ever involving institution members. “May the three days of mourning announced by the President be days of prayer for the souls of those killed and to ask God to give the region of Marsabit courage, strength and above all peace” say the Bishops confirming their commitment to working to find a peaceful solution to the conflict between herdsmen and farmers fighting over scarce land and water resources. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 12/4/2006 righe 27 parole 326)
