The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights now demands that the continuing demolitions and evictions in Narok County’s Sasimwani and Nkareta regions be halted immediately.
The commission demanded that the evictions be halted to allow for formal discussion with those affected.
The KNCHR further requested for enough humanitarian assistance to be provided in order to adequately respond to the affected people’s immediate needs.
The commission’s chair Roseline Odede expressed concern that the evictions are taking place under “uncertain circumstances,” without due process, and in the lack of necessary measures to alleviate the agony of those affected.
Odede stated that if evictions are unavoidable, they must be carried out legitimately and in full conformity with applicable aspects of national law as well as international human rights principles and norms.
“The evictions have occasioned demolition of houses leaving several people homeless in the cold weather and with no source of livelihoods,” Odede said.
“Places of worship have equally been destroyed. It is unfortunate, that the evictions are being conducted during the current rainy season and while the national examinations are ongoing.”
According to the commission, section 152G of the Land Act of 2012 states that any eviction must be preceded by the presentation of legal authorizations for the action and must be carried out in a way that respects the dignity, right to life, and security of people affected.
Odede further stated that particular measures must be put in place to provide adequate protection for vulnerable groups and individuals such as women, children, the elderly, and those with disabilities.
According to the chairperson, the statute requires that specific procedures be put in place to preserve property and valuables left behind involuntarily from destruction, and that affected individuals be given priority in demolishing and salvaging their property.
The commission also called for the implementation of the judgment of the African Court on Human and People’s Rights in the Ogiek of Mau case.
