This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
Published on September 3, 2019, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya has announced a change in the government's stance on the Mau Forest eviction. The government had initially shut down schools constructed using state resources, totaling Sh40 million, after declaring them illegal.
However, Natembeya has now stated that the 15 schools in the area will remain open, allowing children to continue attending classes while the eviction process takes place over the next 60 days.
"We have resolved to open all the 15 schools so as not to be seen like the government does not care. Children will continue attending classes in those schools as the eviction goes on," Natembeya said.
He also clarified that settlers are allowed to leave the disputed land voluntarily, with the use of force being a last resort. This announcement comes after the arrest of several politicians, including Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno and Olulung MCA Jefferson Langat, who were accused of inciting the settlers.
Natembeya warned politicians against setting foot in the Mau Forest, stating that they are not welcome. "They can do their politics in Nairobi or in their boardrooms but not in Mau Forest," he said.
