This archive report was first published on 31 August 2019.
Published on August 31, 2019, by VITALIS KIMUTAI, a Nation journalist.
Thirty-five lawyers have moved to court to contest the impending eviction of 60,000 families from Mau forest, which could affect over 10,000 learners in 31 schools.
The lawyers, led by Nairobi-based advocates Moses Kurgat and Hillary Sigei, and South Rift Law Society of Kenya chairman Kipngetich Korir, have filed a petition to secure orders against the eviction until the case is heard and determined.
They argue that the eviction would permanently affect the lives of residents, particularly young, innocent, and vulnerable children, and compromise their constitutionally guaranteed rights and freedoms.
The petition also seeks to compel the government to set up temporary health facilities and ensure provision of health services and supplies to children in the affected zone.
Additionally, the lawyers want the department of civil registration to issue birth certificates to children born and raised in the region.
However, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya has insisted that phase two of the eviction will proceed as planned.
On Wednesday, Environment and Lands Court Judge Silas Munyao directed that the case be heard in Kitale next Wednesday.
The new litigation comes even as another case filed by Kericho Governor Paul Chepkwony remains pending at the East African Court of Justice and Environment and the Lands Court at Narok High Court.
