Starehe MP Hon. Amos Mwago has raised serious concerns over the ongoing demolition of properties on riparian land in Starehe Constituency, Nairobi County, during a session in Parliament on Tuesday.
“Hon. Speaker, in May 2024 the Government directed that all structures put up on riparian land be demolished following the heavy rains that have caused flooding across the country,” stated Hon. Mwago. He expressed alarm at the manner in which these demolitions are being conducted, highlighting issues of excessive force and disregard for human rights.
Hon. Mwago called for a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Lands and the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Internal Security. He alleged that the demolition process was poorly planned, resulting in many victims becoming homeless and being forced onto the streets. He criticized the government for not providing alternative housing or clear and transparent compensation plans for the displaced persons.
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“These demolitions are taking place without a clear and transparent compensation plan. The purported compensation appears to only target a few individuals,” Hon. Mwago informed the House.
Embakasi West MP Hon. Mark Mwenje also contributed to the discussion, lamenting the distressing societal impact of the demolitions. “The situation as it is, Honourable Speaker, is quite dire because the Government is creating Internally Displaced Persons instead of protecting and creating housing for society,” stated Hon. Mwenje. He urged the government to clarify policies regarding the distance from rivers considered riparian land, noting inconsistent implementation in different areas.
Ruaraka MP Hon. TJ Kajwang questioned the establishment of the Nairobi Rivers Commission, which is spearheading the demolitions and restoration of riparian land under a Presidential gazette notice. He argued that the Commission is unlawful and unconstitutional, as only Parliament has the authority to delegate legislation.
Hon. Kajwang further criticized the disparity in demolition practices, pointing out that only residents in the less affluent Eastlands region of Nairobi were affected. Dagoretti North MP Hon. Beatrice Elachi echoed these sentiments, noting discrimination in the demolition and compensation processes.
“The two Committee Chairpersons should furnish before this house a list of all the property on riparian land that is to be demolished as well as a list of all those who are to be compensated,” suggested Hon. Elachi, demanding transparency and fairness in the handling of the demolitions and compensation.
The heated debate underscored the need for the government to address the human rights and social justice issues arising from the demolitions, and to ensure a fair and transparent process that considers the welfare of all affected citizens.