The Government has spoken out about the demolitions happening at Nyama Villa Estate in Kayole, saying it is not part of the issue.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 17, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura explained that the problem comes from an old land dispute between an investment company and local residents.
“The Government understands the stress and problems caused by what is happening at Nyama Villa Estate in Kayole. However, it’s important to make it clear that the Government has nothing to do with the demolitions,” he said.
Mwaura explained that the dispute, which has been in court for years, led to court orders telling residents to leave the land after a previous out-of-court agreement failed.
He said that while some residents followed the orders and were not affected, others are still involved in the issue as new court orders have since been issued. “This situation is a result of a long-running land dispute between an investment company and the residents. The matter has been in legal conflict for many years, leading to court orders for residents to leave the land after an out-of-court settlement fell apart. Some residents followed the orders and have not been affected. New court orders have been issued,” he added. Mwaura called for open discussion and fair solutions, urging all sides to seek justice through legal channels.
He also mentioned that the government is committed to working with local authorities to help the affected residents.
“The Government encourages all parties to focus on open talks within the law to settle any remaining issues fairly, justly, and peacefully. The Government respects the independence of the courts, the rule of law, and the protection of private property. We will work with local authorities to provide assistance to those affected,” he said.
Many families in Nyama Villa, part of Kayole, were left homeless after a series of demolitions started on December 16.
Reports say bulldozers, escorted by police, arrived without warning, destroying homes and leaving residents displaced.
The demolitions caused widespread public anger, which led the government to issue this statement.