Senator Omtatah warns of life-threatening flaws in new Sh9bn Bunge Tower

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has issued a strong warning about safety lapses in Bunge Tower, revealing that the building’s current state could cost lives during an emergency.

He pointed to the lack of a medical wing, basic emergency tools, and lifts that can accommodate stretchers as unacceptable shortcomings for a facility meant to host lawmakers.

Speaking in the Senate chamber on Tuesday, Omtatah said the absence of emergency preparedness in both Houses puts members and staff in a dangerous position.

"I want to raise a matter of great concern to the Senate in terms of emergency preparedness. Today, I just learned that we are sitting ducks. Should an emergency happen where you need an intervention from a medic, I just learnt that the Senate does not have an emergency department (in) both Parliaments," he said.

The lawmaker said there are no first aid kits or trained responders inside the building, and in case of incidents, they must rely on external support.

He found it disturbing that such a situation exists in a modern, high-rise office building costing taxpayers Sh9 billion.

"It also occurred to me that Bunge Tower, as high as it is, does not have a lift where a stretcher can fit," Omtatah noted, raising alarm over the risks of trying to evacuate someone from the upper floors during a medical crisis.

Omtatah was prompted to speak out after a medical emergency occurred in the building that morning. He said it was only by chance that the incident took place on the first floor.

"We are only lucky that the emergency we had happened on the first floor,r so we were able to carry the victim using a stretcher by the staircase. Imagine if it had happened on the top of that building, what would have happened?" he asked.

He added that the building’s maintenance and design flaws are widespread and frustrating even in day-to-day use.

"When I leave my office, I have to go look for a shoeshiner because the carpet gets off and gets on my shoes. It's very sad, whoever designed this building needs to be arrested and locked away," said Omtatah.

Speaker Amason Kingi noted the seriousness of the issue but encouraged Omtatah to raise it formally at another time.

"I will give you an opportunity, maybe later on, to ventilate on the very important matter you are raising," Kingi said.

Although the senator was contributing during a debate on the Coffee Bill, his observations found clear support from the context of the day’s events.

His remarks also revived memories of the June 25, 2024, incident when lawmakers were forced to shelter in the basement during a protest.

That day, angry demonstrators stormed Parliament in defiance of the Finance Bill, which had passed with little change despite public outcry.

The next day, the President withdrew the bill, acknowledging public pressure.

Omtatah’s concerns come as a call to revisit the safety standards of the facility meant to serve Kenya’s elected leaders.