Jomvu MP Badi Twalib Condemns Evictions and Supports Constituents Amidst Land Disputes

Jomvu Member of Parliament (MP) Badi Twalib has taken a firm stand against the controversial evictions of residents in Mwaeba village, Miritini location, decrying the actions of a local tycoon as inhumane and unjust. The evictions, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, have sparked outrage and concern among both local residents and activists.

During a meeting with village elders, MP Twalib vehemently condemned the forced removal of over 30 families from their homes, calling for immediate redress. The evictions were reportedly carried out by a local tycoon who seeks to develop the land for warehouse construction. This action has been particularly contentious given the land’s history and the recent relocation of residents due to airport expansion plans.

Twalib revealed that the land in question was initially designated by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) for the expansion of Moi International Airport. This led to the relocation of the residents during his second term as MP. However, Twalib questioned the legitimacy of the recent eviction, pointing out that the area was supposed to be part of the airport’s expansion plan, which was aimed at ensuring maximum security and operational efficiency.

“I know the airport needs maximum security, but in my thoughts, the residents should stay there because since the world was formed, there has been no incident between the residents and the airport,” stated Twalib. He highlighted the harmonious relationship between the residents and the airport, which included benefits from the airport’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs over the years.

Twalib’s support for his constituents is unwavering. He expressed deep concern over the fact that the residents were evicted under dubious circumstances, with allegations of collusion between security officers and the tycoon. The MP vowed to pursue legal avenues to ensure justice is served, stressing that forceful evictions contravene government policies and should not be tolerated.

Adding to the controversy, Wilson Nyamawi, one of the affected residents, shared his plight. Nyamawi revealed that his family, along with others, had been farming the land since the 1950s. They were only relocated in 2020 for drainage works related to the airport expansion. However, in July this year, hired youths, allegedly escorted by police, demolished homes on the remaining 30-acre piece of land which the residents claim to have occupied for over 60 years.

“We have been left without homes or means to sustain ourselves. Our children are out of school, our farm is fenced off, and we are forced to sleep under trees. We need the government to step in,” Nyamawi lamented.

Human rights activist Bradley Ouna has criticized the eviction process, asserting that proper procedures were not followed. He condemned the lack of public consultation and accused the tycoon of using hired youths to prevent residents from accessing their land.

Ouna’s concerns echo the broader criticism of the eviction’s handling. He emphasized that all stakeholders, including the Sub-County and County Security Committees, should have been involved in any legal proceedings related to the eviction.

The situation has drawn significant attention, including from President William Ruto, who is reportedly aware of the issue and has instructed Principal Secretary for Lands Nixon Korir to intervene. MP Twalib’s commitment to his constituents and his condemnation of the evictions reflect a broader concern for justice and fairness in land management issues.

As the dust settles, the future of the evicted families remains uncertain. The actions of the tycoon and the involvement of local security officers will likely continue to be scrutinized as the community seeks resolution and support from their elected representatives and government officials.