Families in Garissa have been left homeless after houses in the Public Works area were demolished in an early morning operation on Monday, May 25, to clear land for the government’s Affordable Housing Project.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

Reports indicate that the demolitions were carried out at around 5am on Monday, May 25, with security personnel strictly enforcing the operation following the expiry of an eviction notice period issued by the government.

Siadha Ahmed, one of the affected residents, said they were not given time to save their property before the demolitions began.

“They destroyed my belongings, beds, water tanks, charcoal and food. They didn’t even give me time to collect my things,” she said.

📌 What You Need to Know

Video footage shows excavators demolishing house structures into the morning, with residents sorting through the rubble to salvage whatever belongings they could recover.

The exercise has sparked anger among affected residents, who accuse local leaders of using the affordable housing programme to facilitate land grabbing.

Swahib Ismail, a resident who was affected by the demolitions, said the demolitions were unfair, accusing government officials of being involved.

“People have been thrown out without any concern. This is something the leaders have planned to grab the land without considering our rights,” he said.

Additionally, residents claimed the process was handled without adequate consideration of their rights or alternative resettlement plans , leaving them scrambling for shelter and at a loss with regards to their belongings.

The residents have called on the government and President William Ruto to intervene and provide assistance.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke