Raila Barred From Mavoko Demolitions

Police officers yesterday blocked Azimio-affiliated leaders from gaining access to the East Africa Portland Cement land where there have been ongoing demolitions.

Among them was opposition leader Raila Odinga who led the leaders in solidarity to witness the magnitude of the ongoing demolitions in the area.

The demolitions began on Friday afternoon shortly after the President visited the Export Processing zones in Mavoko, Machakos county said that the land grabbers had illegally seized the land for more than ten years now.

Ruto declared that the land grabbers would be kicked out of the East Africa Portland Cement land to pave the way for the construction of a new pharmaceutical company.

The Azimio leaders led by Raila tried to convince the police officers guarding the site to allow them access to the land area but their pleas fell on deaf ears.

The officers termed the move by the Opposition leaders unnecessary since a lot of activities were taking place in the area.

Opposition leader Raila blamed the government for giving the go-ahead for the demolitions in the area terming it as inhumane to the citizens.

“It’s ungodly whatever is going on here is false eviction the exact crime Ruto promised to bring to an end in July last year,” said Raila.

He added that the move was a gross violation of human rights, the right to adequate housing at a time when the government should be working to ensure that everyone has shelter.

The demolitions have since forced the Machakos county government to pass a bill to allow compensation to those who have been affected by the demolitions.

In addition, the DCI has this morning issued a press release saying that it will establish desks at the Athi River police station to aid in collecting evidence that will help in investigations.