This archive report was first published on 17 June 2020.
On June 17, 2020, the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) under General Mohammed Badi announced plans to temporarily resettle evicted Kariobangi and Ruai residents.
Government spokesperson Cyrus Oguna explained that the NMS had taken control of the contentious demolitions, which had sparked widespread concern, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Oguna, the government was concerned about the evictions, which had unfolded in a manner that was not in line with the nation's priorities at the time.
"NMS is working to ensure that those whose houses were demolished are assisted," Oguna stated. "During this COVID-19 period, they will be provided with face masks, sanitizers, and handwashing agents."
He added that the government had set up a committee to investigate the evictions and how the land was grabbed.
"The demolitions were to happen earlier or later. The land belongs to Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company and had been earmarked for infrastructural development," Oguna explained.
On June 15, 2020, Principal Secretary Ministry of Water and Sanitation Joseph Irungu disclosed that the government was intent on embarking on the second phase of the repossession exercise in Nairobi's Kariobangi area.
"It is not very easy and it has a lot of emotions but we have to set aside the emotions and face reality," he explained.
The High Court had previously halted further demolitions of the Kariobangi North Estate until a petition by the residents was determined.
