Families of students who lost their lives in the tragic dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy have expressed frustration over plans to delay the release of their children's bodies until after a national requiem service scheduled for June 17.
The parents voiced their concerns after visiting Naivasha Funeral Home, where they were allowed to view the remains of their daughters for the first time since the devastating fire that claimed 16 lives.
Despite authorities confirming that DNA testing and identification of all the victims had been completed, most families were informed that they would have to wait before taking the bodies home for burial. The decision sparked emotional reactions, with many relatives questioning the reason behind the delay.
One grieving parent, whose daughter was among those who perished in the tragedy, said families had already endured days of uncertainty during the identification process and deserved the opportunity to give their children a dignified send-off without further delays.
Several parents argued that the proposed national memorial service should not stand in the way of burial arrangements. They maintained that families should be free to proceed with funeral plans once identification procedures are complete.
Others described the waiting period as emotionally exhausting and financially challenging, noting that many families had already spent considerable resources travelling, seeking information, and supporting relatives affected by the tragedy.
The atmosphere at the mortuary was filled with sorrow as relatives came face to face with the remains of their loved ones. Many broke down in tears, while others required counselling support due to the emotional weight of the moment. Personnel from the Kenya Red Cross were present to provide psychosocial assistance to affected families.
Only one family was reportedly allowed to take their daughter's remains for burial after citing religious requirements that call for prompt interment of the deceased.
In response to the concerns, government officials acknowledged the families' frustrations and indicated that consultations would be held to determine whether the bodies could be released before the planned national memorial service.
Authorities have also confirmed that all postmortem and mortuary expenses for the affected families will be fully covered by the government.
As the country continues to mourn the young lives lost in the tragic fire, families are now hoping for a resolution that will allow them to lay their children to rest and begin the difficult journey toward healing.
