New Twist as Govt Distances Itself From Nyama Villa Demolitions

The government issued a clarification on the demolitions in Nyama Villa Village in Kayole on Monday, December 16, which sparked mass outrage on social media.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura clarified that the government was not involved in the demolitions.

“The Government acknowledges the distress and disruption the situation at Nyama Villa Estate in Kayole has caused to the affected Kenyans. However, it is important to clarify that the Government is not involved in the demolitions in any manner,” the statement read.

Further Mwaura revealed the government would assist the affected parties while urging the involved parties to solve the land issues amicably.

“The Government therefore urges all parties involved to prioritize open dialogue within the confines of the rule of law to resolve any outstanding issues in a fair, just, and peaceable manner,” Mwaura added in the statement.

“The government respects the independence of the judiciary, rule of law, and the sanctity of private property.”

On Monday, Kayole was marred by unsavory scenes as a standoff ensued between community groups and excavators who were at the scene to demolish houses. the Kayole Community Justice Centre alleged that some of the excavators arrived in the middle of the night without prior notice to the residents.

One woman believed to be a landlord in the area went viral on social media after she was spotted atop a building in a desperate attempt to stop its demolition.

At the time, there was uncertainty about who was behind the demolitions, with the local community in Kayole pointing an accusing finger at the government.

Notably, Nyama Villa estate demolitions have been a contentious issue dating back to 2018, during President Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime.

Kenyans.co.ke has since learned from the local community that the woes stem from a Nairobi-based billionaire, who had created fake title deeds and colluded with some county officials to grab part of the contested land.

At the time, Nairobi governor Mike Sonko was forced to intervene as he ordered the stoppage of planned demolitions of structures on the land in question.