Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu has called for an independent investigation into the helicopter crash that killed Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ng’eno and five others, saying it is necessary to address public concerns and restore confidence.

Speaking in an interview on March 2, 2026, Nyutu described Ng’eno as a vocal leader who championed the interests of his constituents, particularly on land matters in Emurua Dikirr. He noted that land disputes in the area have previously led to violence and loss of life.

“Matters of land have caused death to many people,” Nyutu said. “He was standing with his people, and because he’s a politician, it’s hard not to politicize this death.”

Call for transparency

Nyutu said calls for transparency in the investigation are justified, adding that no opposition leader has directly cited foul play.

“They are quite in order. They are within their rights to demand that investigations be done in a fair manner to clear any suspicion that could be there with the family, the constituents, and other Kenyans in general,” he stated.

He argued that an independent body should handle the probe instead of relying solely on local investigators, citing the risk of compromise if senior government officials were implicated.

“We do not want local investigators who can be compromised, especially if those that could have been involved are people who are powerful in government,” Nyutu added.

Crash details and ongoing investigations

The Airbus H125 helicopter, registration 5Y-DSB, crashed in Chepkiep Forest in Mosop Sub-County, Nandi County, at about 4:45 pm on February 28, 2026. All six on board died.

They included Ng’eno, pilot Captain George Were, Kenya Forest Service ranger Amos Kipngetich Rotich, photojournalist Nick Kosgey, teacher Robert Kipkoech Keter, and Narok County protocol officer Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono.

Preliminary findings indicate the aircraft was flying at low altitude due to adverse weather conditions and struck trees during an attempted emergency landing before catching fire.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Department has recovered the black box and parts of the wreckage, some of which will undergo further analysis abroad in line with International Civil Aviation Organization standards. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days.

Leaders across the political divide have mourned Ng’eno, a three-term MP born in 1972. President William Ruto visited the family in Karen to offer condolences.

Ng’eno is scheduled to be laid to rest on March 6, 2026, as investigations into the crash continue.