President Kenyatta declares three days of national mourning following the Westgate Attacks

President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday declared three days of national mourning as he confirmed to the public that the Westgate siege is finally over.

The head of state said the national mourning is in honour of all those who lost their lives, a period in which flags will fly at half mast.

“It has not been easy for any of us least of all the affected; our losses are immense. To the honour and memory of those who lost their lives in this attack, I have declared three days of national mourning starting tomorrow (Wednesday) during which official flags will fly half mast throughout the country,” the president said.

While addressing the nation, the president disclosed that 61 civilians lost their lives while 6 security personnel also died as they tried to rescue the hostages. He also added 62 survivors were admitted to different hospitals in Nairobi while those who suffered minor injuries and trauma had been allowed to go home. 

President Kenyatta said forensic experts had already moved into the scene to identify the nationality of the attackers who were killed, who according to the president numbers 5, as well as bodies of victims that may have been trapped in the building after its three floors collapsed.

“Towards the end of the operation, three floors of the mall collapsed and there are still several bodied trapped including the terrorists,” the President regretted.

“Intelligence reports had suggested that a British woman and two or three American citizens may have been involved in the attack. We cannot confirm the details at present but forensic experts are working to ascertain the nationalities of the terrorists,” the president said in regard to claims that a woman of British nationality was among the attackers.

The president also moved to pledge frequent updates just to make sure that the public is well informed on the happenings that have left the nation mourning the loss of lives.

 “I promise we shall have full accountability for the mindless destruction, deaths, pain, loss and suffering we have all undergone, these cowards will meet justice as well as their accomplices and patrons wherever they are,” he vowed.

The head of state urged Kenyans to continue praying and remain united.