Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has called upon President William Ruto to refrain from advising Nairobi residents to relocate to higher ground, emphasizing that Nairobi lacks mountains. He asserts that if the government plans to demolish houses, it must provide alternative accommodation rather than resorting to abrupt demolitions.
Sifuna's remarks follow closely on the heels of the government's actions to demolish houses situated near riverbanks. Reports indicate that several homes near Nairobi's rivers have been razed by the Kenya Defence Forces, acting on directives from President William Ruto.
Edwin Sifuna: Ruto should show us where there are hills in Nairobi and build us houses there. Awache usenge!
— Cornelius K. Ronoh (@itskipronoh) May 4, 2024
Super Senator ameamua form ni kufinish kumalo. Piga ua! Vayolence! pic.twitter.com/sLxOAqeX18
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Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has appealed to Azimio leader Raila Odinga to engage in dialogue with President William Ruto, citing the dire suffering experienced by the people. While acknowledging Ruto's efforts to safeguard lives, Sifuna lamented the politicization of the situation by political leaders.
Residents of Mukuru Kwa Reuben slums in Nairobi voiced regret over their choice to vote for President William Ruto after his government demolished their homes. Bulldozers from the National Youth Service (NYS) commenced the demolition of houses near riverbanks on Friday, igniting frustration and anger among the local community.
Residents raised concerns about the lack of prior notice from the government before the demolition of their homes, noting that their belongings were still inside when the demolitions began. An unidentified woman, speaking to Citizen Digital, conveyed her distress, highlighting that she now had nowhere to go after all her household items were destroyed along with her house.
The demolition of houses near riverbanks ensued after the 48-hour notice given to the public to vacate the area had expired. On Wednesday, the Cabinet directed individuals residing in hazardous zones—such as areas near dams, water reservoirs on public or private land, regions prone to mudslides and landslides, and riparian lands along rivers and other watercourses—to relocate promptly.