A BRITISH national has died following a hit-and-run incident involving a vehicle from the motorcade of Kenyan President William Ruto. According to a report by the BBC, the man has been identified as 79-year-old Edgar Charles Frederick, who was struck on a main road in Nairobi on Thursday.
Police say the vehicle was part of the president’s convoy, specifically a support car travelling at the rear. By the time of the accident, President Ruto and the main body of his convoy had already passed the area.
A police spokesperson, Michael Muchiri, confirmed to the BBC that Mr Frederick was in Kenya visiting his sister and nephew, who are residents in the country. His family has since been informed of the tragic incident. A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted on Friday.
Driver detained and released on bail
The driver of the vehicle involved was taken into police custody shortly after the accident. Authorities say the driver failed to stop following the collision. According to police reports, he has since been released on bail but is expected to appear in court pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Michael Muchiri clarified to the BBC that the vehicle belongs to the regional administration and was providing logistical support to the presidential security team at the time of the incident.
Public outcry over motorcade conduct
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many Kenyans questioning the size and speed of President Ruto’s motorcade. While it is common practice for roads to be cleared during a presidential convoy, concerns have been raised about pedestrian safety.
This is not the first time a vehicle in the president’s or deputy president’s entourage has been linked to accidents involving pedestrians. However, observers note that this case has attracted heightened attention, partly because the victim was a foreign national.
UK officials seeking more information
A spokesperson for the UK High Commission in Nairobi confirmed that British officials are aware of the reports and are actively seeking additional information regarding the circumstances of Frederick’s death.
Eyewitness videos shared online show Frederick lying on the road outside a busy shopping district, wearing blue jeans and a light-coloured shirt. Later photos depict the victim covered with a traditional Maasai Shuka as bystanders looked on.
President Ruto’s activities near the scene
President William Ruto was reported to have been holding public engagements nearby on the day of the incident. According to the BBC, these were part of his ongoing political outreach efforts in Nairobi.
As investigations continue, Kenyan authorities have pledged to follow due process in addressing the circumstances of the fatal accident.
