237 300
By Dennis Wanyonyi
Two members of the Solidarity Group have tragically died due to depression following the ongoing demolitions in Gikomba, carried out by the Nairobi County Government.
Speaking at Milimani Law Courts after filing a case at the High Court to halt the demolitions, city lawyer Danstan Omari, representing the 222 affected individuals, stated that their rights have been violated, given that they have occupied the land since 1992.
The group claims to have been paying land rates and are now shocked by the demolition of their businesses. Omari emphasized that the businesses serve over 5 million people both locally and internationally, and thus urged the government to stop the demolitions.
“This business serves many people both locally and internationally. There are individuals who covet this land and wish to start the same business. We want the government to halt this exercise so the matter can be heard and determined,” said Omari.
On behalf of the group, John Kinami, the chairman of the Solidarity Group, called on President William Ruto to intervene, arguing that he promised to protect the interests of the hustlers. Kinami expressed disappointment, stating that the group consists of heirs to the original allottees.
“It’s unfortunate that someone is after our land, which we inherited from our forefathers. We have been paying land rates and fees to this county government. As we speak, we don’t know what to do. Our children are also suffering because we have no place to work,” said Kinami.
The court is set to deliver its ruling on the application on the 10th of June after all parties have been served.