Red Cross, security teams’ rescue efforts laudable

The rescue operation at Westgate Shopping Mall by the Kenya Red Cross, security units and the general public has, so far, been commendable. The emergency response by the public, some of who even volunteered to take injured survivors to hospitals and also donated blood, is heartening.

The Kenya Red Cross team led by Secretary General Abbas Gullet did a splendid job. They were the first to arrive at the scene with ten ambulances, which were later increased and are still on the ground. Gullet was even involved in carrying the injured to the ambulances, which is unique considering his position.

Our security forces, including the military and police units, responded in good time and have continued to do a good job on the ground. The media’s swift response and their continued presence at the scene of the attacks and in hospitals has ensured that Kenyans are informed of the events as they continue to unfold. Let us remain united during this period of grief and be our brothers’ keepers.

{James Okong’o, Nairobi}

I condemn the inhuman, irresponsible heinous attack against  innocent people at Westgate Mall.

My deepest condolences to those who lost their loved ones. I ask God to give all of you comfort as you confront this tragedy. To those who were injured, I wish you quick recovery from the physical and other shocks you experienced.

Terrorists are criminals and not communities. We must avoid ethnic profiling and get to the root cause of the security issues we are facing. Divided we fall but together we shall overcome!

This is not the time to start blaming each other because of that awful incident. This is indeed a national disaster that has affected all of us. The gunmen didn’t care who was who, which tribe or religion they belonged to. They were shooting to kill. Instead of blaming each other, let’s unite and join hands to pray for our nation and for those who lost their loved ones. And let’s condemn this act in the strongest terms possible. Terrorism is the philosophy of cowards.

{Abdulmajid Mohamed, Wajir}

Saturday September 21, 2013 is a day Kenyans will never forget, more so the victims of the Westgate attack in Nairobi. No one is aware of the motive of the attackers so far but the question that lingers in many people’s minds is how they found their way to the Westgate shopping centre.

To know the motives and the people behind the attack, our security forces must capture the suspects. Let’s stay calm.

{Erick onyango, Maseno}



I am deeply saddened by the insensitive nature of our radio stations. I happened to be in Kisumu town when the attacked was carried out and therefore could not easily access TV.

Turning on my phone radio for updates, the stations were awash with European football commentaries while others were absorbed in foreign music as our country was burning.

I had to turn to BBC, which was providing up-to-date information. Our media should learn to change with the mood of the nation.

{Eddie Owedhi, Kisumu}       source standard News

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