In a landmark development, Solai Dam victims have found reprieve. Businessman Perry Mansukh and eight others agreed to compensate Ksh 1.2 million for adults and 800,000 for children. At least 48 lives were lost in the 9th May 2018 incident. the Solai dam broke its banks following an episode of particularly heavy rains.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) announced the extrajudicial statement via X on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. While the KHRC represented only 29 victims, the agreement includes all those who lost their lives.
“Kins of 47 Solai dam tragedy victims agree and sign a compensation deal— Sh1.2 million for adults’ families and Sh800,000 for minors. KHRC represents 29 victims in this agreement, connected to a manslaughter case against nine people, a dam owner and his workers”
The KHRC stated via X.
The Aftermath
In addition to the loss of lives, the Solai tragedy resulted in over 5000 people losing their homes. Millions of liters of water flew downstream through areas of Energy, Nyakinyua, Endao, Arutani, and Milmet, leaving destruction in its wake.
Infrastructure was also severely damaged, with power transmission lines and water lines being swept away. The water erosion further also contributed to soil erosion over a 15-kilometres land stretch, leaving behind deep gullies. All of these serve as a stark reminder of the destructive force of the waters that upturned the lives of area residents more than five years ago.
The Court Case
Initially, in February 2020, justice for the victims seemed elusive. Chief Magistrate Kennedy Bidali ruled that Perry Mansukh and his co-accused had no case to answer. But, in April 2023, Naivasha Chief Magistrate Nathan Lutta overruled the previous verdict. His Honour determined that Perry Mansukh and 8 others be put on the defense.
“I have keenly looked at documents presented before court, including witness statements. The court has established that the nine accused persons have a case to answer and have been put on their own defense.” Magistrate Lutta said
In October 2023, the Solai Tragedy victims requested to settle the case out of Court.
“The victims have held meetings with the accused persons seeking an out-of-court settlement and they are seeking more time to finalise the issue,”.
State Counsel Gichuhi Gikui stated.
The others charged with 48 counts of manslaughter include Vinoj Jaya Kumar, Johnson Njuguna, Luka Kipyegen, Winnie Muthoni, Jacinta Were, Tomkin Odo Odhiambo, Willie Omondi, and Lynette Cheruiyot.
Though it took five years, justice was finally served.
By BNN