Alai said the tragedy was not an accident but a clear result of negligence, failure and corruption within the city’s planning and enforcement systems.
In a statement shared on X on Friday, January 2, 2025, Alai raised serious questions about how the building was approved and later altered without action being taken by authorities.
He argued that the loss of lives could have been avoided if those responsible had done their jobs and followed the law.
According to Alai, the building was originally approved for a limited number of floors but was later extended far beyond what had been allowed.
He said this reckless decision put workers and nearby residents in danger, eventually leading to the tragic collapse.
“I am told that this building was built on LR. No. 209/5909/10 and was initially approved for 12 floors. Five more floors were added,” Alai stated.
He said such a major change could not have happened without the knowledge or approval of officials charged with oversight.
The MCA insisted that violations of this nature do not occur by mistake.
He pointed an accusing finger at planners, engineers, inspectors and county officials who, in his view, failed to stop the illegal expansion of the building.
Alai said these individuals should be named, investigated and charged in court.
He further noted that Nairobi has witnessed several building collapses in recent years, yet very few people are ever held accountable.
According to him, this culture of impunity has encouraged developers to ignore safety standards, knowing they are unlikely to face serious consequences.
Alai called on investigative agencies to move quickly and independently to establish who approved the extra floors and why enforcement officers failed to act.
He said justice for the victims and their families can only be achieved if those responsible face criminal charges.