Prayer fundraiser for Kenya fires

The tanker caught fire as people were trying to collect its spilt fuel

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki has led a prayer and charity event for victims of two fires which left more than 150 people dead last month.

The fundraiser, held in the capital Nairobi, raised over 80m shillings ($1m; £700,000), said organisers.

More than 130 people were killed in a petrol tanker fire, while 25 others died in a supermarket blaze.

The government was criticised for failing to ensure public safety after the fatal incidents.

Controversy surrounded the fundraiser after reports that the government had spent more than $64,000 (£45,000) organising it.

The BBC's Anne Mawathe in Nairobi says the event was poorly attended by members of the public.

President Kibaki received donations from cabinet ministers, public corporations, government officials, private firms and individuals during the fundraiser.

Disillusioned

Meanwhile, religious leaders criticised the government, saying its failure to eradicate corruption was causing Kenyans to despair.

Kenyans have been disillusioned by the grand coalition government Religious leaders

"The political leaders in Kenya have been the greatest threat to peace and prosperity in the country," a joint statement from the religious leaders said.

They urged the president and prime minister to shun corruption and punish those responsible.

"You've been reluctant to punish those perceived to be your friends, who are corrupt and greedy.

"As a result, Kenyans have been disillusioned by the grand coalition government."

But President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga defended the government against the accusations.

The money raised is expected to be used to help settle hospital bills of survivors and help victim's families.

The government has promised to cover the medical costs for those injured in the incident, and pay for specialised surgery.

About 200 people were injured during the tanker fire and at least 148 are still undergoing treatment.

On 9 February, the government organised a mass burial for at least 100 people who died in the oil tanker fire.

The causes of the two fires have not been established.