The demolition of homes in Nairobi’s Woodley Estate on Monday night has sparked outrage from the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The party has condemned the action as a “colonial approach that has no place in modern Kenya.”
In a statement, Acting ODM Party Leader and Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o voiced strong concerns about the manner in which the demolitions were executed.
While he supported the plan to redevelop Woodley Estate into high-density apartments, he criticized the timing of the demolitions, carried out in the dead of night, calling it both inhumane and shocking.
“A more humane and organized approach would have been to develop a new high-density housing unit elsewhere and relocate the residents there,” Nyong’o said.

“Demolishing homes under cover of darkness is a colonial method that should not be tolerated in Kenya today.”
The ODM leader also appealed to the Nairobi County Government to show compassion in the enforcement of the law, urging them not to act as “Pharisees” in the execution of their duties.
Nyong’o further argued that the demolitions violated the Constitution, specifically Article 43(1)(b), which guarantees the right to adequate housing. He also highlighted that the demolitions went against United Nations guidelines on involuntary resettlement.
“Woodley Estate has long been home to many prominent Kenyans, including Kapenguria Six freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko, Barack Obama’s father, Barack Obama Sr., and other key historical figures,” Nyong’o added.
“It was also home to notable individuals such as Argwings Kodhek, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s speechwriter Odinge Odera, and broadcaster Sammy Lui, among others.”
A total of 43 residents lost their homes in the demolitions.
The affected residents have expressed their opposition to the move, arguing they were not consulted before the demolitions took place.

What remained of a house at Woodley estate.