The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by Rigathi Gachagua, has publicly blamed the Ruto administration for the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that claimed 16 lives and left 79 students injured.The incident happened shortly after midnight, and the school has since been closed indefinitely.

According to DCP, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen was informed of the fire at around 2 am but allegedly delayed mobilisation of emergency teams, waiting until morning to travel due to what the party describes as his late-night habits.

The opposition party condemned the government for poor disaster preparedness in schools, citing past tragedies like St Kizito, Kyanguli Boys, and Hillside Endarasha Academy.

DCP also questioned the effectiveness of the National Disaster Response Committee and criticised Parliament for slow progress on the National Disaster Response Management Bill.

The party further called for Murkomen’s resignation and Education CS Julius Ogamba’s censure, arguing that government leaders prioritise political operations over timely emergency response.Families continue to mourn the lost students while seven remain hospitalised in stable condition.The tragedy has sparked nationwide debate on school safety, emergency preparedness, and accountability within government departments.