MP seeks answers from parliament over Kericho mass grave scandal
National
By
Nikko Tanui
| Apr 04, 2026
[Kipsang Joseph, Standard]
Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei has moved to Parliament seeking answers over the controversial burial of dozens of unidentified bodies in a mass grave at the Kericho County Public Cemetery.
In a formal request submitted to the National Assembly, Kemei is demanding a comprehensive statement from the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security regarding the circumstances under which the bodies were transported and buried.
The MP raised concern over reports that the bodies, believed to have originated from Nyamira County, were moved and interred in Kericho County without clear documentation or adherence to established legal procedures.
At the centre of the inquiry is a reported discrepancy in the number of bodies involved.
While authorities are said to have approved the burial of 13 bodies, a total of 33 were allegedly buried, prompting questions over possible irregularities and breaches of protocol.
READ MORE
How Treasury is edging out 'mama mboga' for banks
Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade
Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle
China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect
Co-op bank shares set for further gains on strong profit growth, lower rates
Kenya slashes dollar debt to record low as Chinese yuan gains ground
Government plans stricter laws to clean up tea sector
Tourism earnings hit record Sh500 billion as arrivals near 8m
Kakamega youth, women eye avocado export cash after skills training
“The handling and disposal of human remains must strictly follow the law, including proper authorisation, identification, and record-keeping,” Kemei stated in her request, citing concerns over possible violations of the Public Health Act and the National Coroners Service Act.
Through her submission, Kemei, is seeking clarification on whether all necessary permits were obtained, including inter-county approvals, and whether due process was followed in transporting the bodies across county lines.
“ We also want a detailed account of the identities and origin of the deceased, the circumstances surrounding their deaths, and the reasons behind the decision to dispose of them in a mass grave,” she said.
Further, Kemei is pushing for government action to conduct forensic identification of the bodies, including DNA analysis, to help trace next of kin and ensure dignified reburials.
The MP has also demanded an update on investigations into the matter, including measures being taken to hold accountable any individuals or institutions found to have acted outside the law.
The request, received by the Speaker’s Office on April 1, 2026, has been committed to the relevant parliamentary committee, which is expected to table its response in the coming days.
The revelations have sparked public concern, with residents and human rights groups calling for swift action to uncover the truth behind the mass burial and ensure justice for the unidentified victims.
MOST READ
- Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade
OPINION
By Paul Russo
- Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle
BUSINESS
By Brian Ngugi
- China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect
BUSINESS
By Brian Ngugi