Families and owners of buildings that were earmarked for demolition can now breathe a sigh of relief after the government suspended demolition of buildings across the country.
The demolition orders were signed by Environment and Land Court Deputy Registrar last September 17.
The 23, according to the court order, had been given 90 days from May 13, 2014 to vacate, failure to which they would be evicted.
The orders said the eviction would be supervised by the Inspector General of Police, the Nairobi County Coordinator, Kayole OCS and OCPD.
Earlier today when I issued orders to stop demolition of buildings in Kayole estate where a private developer used fake title deeds to get eviction notices from our courts. I’ll pursue the matter in court and ensure the victims of this inhumane act get justice. pic.twitter.com/FEIlzEy7ZM
— Mike Sonko (@MikeSonko) December 20, 2018
However , the demolitions have taken another twist after it has emerged that the private developer had obtained false papers which were used to execue tje order.
While speaking to residents of Kayole estate, Nairobi governor said he had issued orders to stop demolition of buildings in the estate where a private developer used fake title deeds to get eviction notices from courts.
Sonko further aid that his administaraion was taking strict measures and is in pursuit of the matter in court to ensure victims of the inhumane act get justice.
The head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua has also backed the remarks .
“It is notified for the general information of the public that the government has forthwith directed the immediate suspension of all demolition of properties in all parts of the country until further notice,”
Mr Kinyua, in the press statement, said further guidance will be issued following consultations with relevant state agencies.
The suspension came after the demolition of buildings in Kayole was met with outcry from over 500 families who were left homeless after their houses were flattened by bulldozers.
“…the said defendants, their agents and/or servants have defaulted to vacate the suit property within the period ordered to do so by the court. You are hereby authorised to remove… all structures from the suit property known as L.R No. 23917 Nairobi or any person bound by the order who may refuse to vacate the under mentioned property.”
Muthithi Investment is linked to a city tycoon.
Dozens of dwellers who spoke to The Standard said they were not notified.
At dawn yesterday, Ms Moraa said, youths took advantage of the demolitions and the ensuing confusion to loot.
Dear Mr President @UKenyatta, on behalf of the affected tenants and landlords in Nyama Villa, I would like to say Thank You for stopping further demolitions until January to pave way for stakeholder engagement. I’ll be back in Kayole tomorrow to confirm your intervention. pic.twitter.com/nlwZxsrQa8
— Hon. Esther M Passaris (@EstherPassaris) December 19, 2018
She said she lost Sh15,000, her mobile phone and vital documents.
“For over 10 years we have lived here and until this morning we never knew of any impending demolition. We didn’t even know this land was in dispute,” she said.
“The youth stole most of the electronics from the house. We lost almost all our valuables,” she added, wiping away tears.
What should be done to the developer?