MP seeks to stall evictions from forest

PHOTO | JARED NYATAYA President Uhuru Kenyatta second (left) and Deputy President William Ruto (left), present Sh10,000 to Musa Chemweno and his wife Betsy as Elgeyo-Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen and other leaders look on during the compensation of 2,874 Embobut Forest Evictees in the county held at Tangul Primary School in Kabyego on November 15, 2013. An MP is seeking a six-month extension of eviction notices for thousands of Embobut Forest squatters.   NATION MEDIA GROUP

In Summary

• Each squatter received Sh400,000 two months ago to buy land and move out of the forest but they are now appealing for more time.
• On reports that some had misused the money by making merry during Christmas and New Year, Mr Bowen said a significant number had already bought land.

By PHILEMON SUTER
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An MP is seeking a six-month extension of eviction notices for thousands of Embobut Forest squatters who were paid Sh1.1 billion in compensation.

Each squatter received Sh400,000 two months ago to buy land and move out of the forest but they are now appealing for more time.

Marakwet East MP Kangogo Bowen on Monday told the squatters he was talking to government officials, including Deputy President William Ruto, to extend the notices.

The 21-day eviction notice issued by County Commissioner Athur Osiya officially lapsed on Monday

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The MP said evictions would inconvenience the squatters as most were preparing to send children to school while others were searching for land.

BOUGHT LAND

On reports that some had misused the money by making merry during Christmas and New Year, Mr Bowen said a significant number had already bought land.

“Those are a few misguided elements. As a matter of fact a considerable number are on track and only need more time,” he said.

Panic has gripped the evictees, with some reported to have moved out of the forest on New Year’s day to seek shelter with relatives.

“Schools are opening and we are preparing for our children. It would be reasonable for the government to consider this and extend the notices to give us time to leave the forest,” said Mr Kipkiror Kirop.

Ms Johana Kitum, who has bought land with the money said: “Some of us are lucky to have secured land but we require time to build houses and put in place other necessities before moving out.”

The evictees said they were facing massive problems, including disposing of their livestock and other property.

“I have seven people who owe me over Sh500,000 and the State should extend the notice so I can collect my money,” said Ms Christinah Kirop

She said should the eviction go ahead, she would not be able to trace her debtors.