The opposition has raised its voice against the ongoing mass demolitions in Msambweni, Voi, and called on the government to halt the forceful eviction of residents.
Azimio leader Raila Odinga Saturday expressed concern about the government’s approach to acquiring and settling dispute.
Odinga pointed out a pattern of evictions occurring in various locations, from Mavoko to Kakamega, Thika, Mombasa, and now in Voi, where people are forcibly removed from their settlements during desperate moments.
The recent incident in Voi involved over 3,000 residents of Msambweni, who faced a police contingent escorting a demolition squad that brought down several homes on disputed land.
Odinga highlighted that the land dispute had been brought to the highest levels of government attention, including President William Ruto, who tasked elected leaders with finding a resolution.
“I have taken time to speak to different categories of community leaders in Voi, and they have assured me of their commitment to finding a solution that is acceptable to all parties involved in the dispute,” Odinga stated.
The community had previously requested compensation from the government for land acquired by the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to facilitate the purchase of alternative settlements.
However, this request remains unfulfilled.
Opposition leader emphasized the cruelty of such demolitions, especially during challenging economic times and as parents prepare to send their children to school.
The opposition called on the government to immediately stop the demolition in Voi and reminded President Ruto of his campaign promises to end forceful evictions.
