Residents welcome Geoffrey Mosiria at the building collapse scene in Eastleigh.
Residents chanted Geoffrey Mosiria’s name as rescuers searched the rubble, while the former Nairobi chief officer called for independent investigations.
Former Nairobi chief officer Geoffrey Mosiria received a warm welcome at the Eastleigh building collapse scene as rescuers searched for survivors. The 16-storey structure under construction fell on 9th Street shortly after 1:09 pm, leaving several people feared trapped.
Videos showed residents surrounding Mosiria, clearing his path and calling out his name. Some also chanted governor, days after he declared interest in Nairobi’s top county seat in 2027.
At one point, Mosiria rode a boda boda through the packed area as excited supporters followed. Meanwhile, rescue teams continued searching the rubble.
Eastleigh building collapse prompts calls for scrutiny
Mosiria expressed sympathy for the victims and their families. However, he said the disaster raised serious concerns about corruption, impunity and weak enforcement of construction rules.
He criticised City Hall’s oversight of building projects and alleged corruption in the approval process. Instead of political influence, he said, professional assessments and safety standards should guide approvals.
Mosiria also urged President William Ruto to support independent investigations and stronger enforcement of construction regulations.
He further claimed that some developers had complained about approval costs reaching Sh56 million or more. He alleged that some foreign developers paid up to Sh92 million. These claims remain unverified.
Two injured people rescued as search continues
Construction workers were on the upper floors when the building collapsed. Witnesses described a loud crash followed by dust rising into the air.
Rescuers pulled an injured man and woman from the debris and took them to hospital. However, the search continued for others feared trapped.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja said the structure stood at around 16 floors and had county approval. He added that it lacked clearance for occupation.
Sakaja also said rescue equipment, including excavators and breakers, was available to remove heavy debris and save lives. Police Commander Issa Mohamud said investigations would establish responsibility for any negligence.
Visit follows Mosiria’s removal from county role
Mosiria’s visit followed his removal as chief officer for Public Participation, Citizen Engagement and Customer Service. A circular signed by County Secretary and Head of Public Service Dr Machel Waikenda announced the reshuffle.
Zipporah Njeri Mwangi took over the docket in an acting capacity. Although the changes followed Mosiria’s announcement that he would challenge Sakaja in 2027, the circular gave no reason.
Mosiria later accused Sakaja of sidelining him for nearly three years. He also claimed disagreements over county affairs led to reductions in his responsibilities and budget. The governor’s office has not publicly confirmed those claims.
