Govt Called Out for Demolishing Estate Where Obama’s Father Lived

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called out Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja over the demolitions of Woodley Estate in Nairobi. 

In a statement, the party’s acting leader Anyang’ Nyong’o has condemned the midnight demolitions that took place in Woodley, to create space for high-density residences.

While the construction of new buildings is welcome, the party has accused the county government of acting in an inhumane manner. 

“The idea of using the space at Woodley estate to house more people by constructing apartments is welcome. However, the manner in which the demolitions were conducted in the middle of the night was inhumane and shocking,” the statement read in part.

Also Read: Uproar as Families Are Left Out in Cold After Demolition of 42 Homes

Obama’s Father and Other Icons Whose Houses Were Demolished

At the same time, the party noted with distaste that among the houses demolished was that of Barack Obama Snr, the father to former US President Barack Obama.

Additionally, Kapeguria 6 freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s speechwriter Odinge Odera and Argwings Kodhek had homes in Woodly that were destroyed. 

Further, former State House official and well-known broadcaster Sammy Lui and Ukambani politician, the late Mulu Mutisya also suffered a loss with the demolitions. 

According to ODM, Woodley Estate was home to many Kenyans, and demolishing the homes was contrary to the law.

“To go out at night and bring down the houses is a colonial approach that should not happen in Kenya today.

“The Woodley demolitions is a clear breach of Article 43(1)(b) of the Constitution of Kenya, and the UN guidelines on Involuntary Resettlement

“It should be noted that Woodley Estate has been home to many Kenyans one of whom is the Kapeguria 6 freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko.

“Woodley was also home to Barack Obama Snr- the father to former US President Barack Obama,” added the statement. 

Instead, ODM has indicated that the country government of Nairobi should have developed houses elsewhere, and transferred the residents in a humane and and well-organized manner. 

“The ODM party wishes to condemn the demolitions and appeal to the Nairobi County Government not to be Pharisees in the execution of the law but to be humane in serving Kenyans.”

Also Read: Big Win for Nairobi County as Court Approves Recovery of Ksh1 Billion Estate

Demolitions at Woodley Estate by Sakaja

Families in Woodley Estate in Nairobi were forced to spend Monday, November 18, in the cold after the government demolished their houses.

Families were spotted standing in the cold, clutching their belongings on the verandas, while others were spotted running while carrying their belongings as a bulldozer demolished the homes.

At least 42 houses in Woodley Estate, located along Joseph Kangethe Road in Nairobi, were demolished following the expiry of the vacation deadline at midnight on 19th November 2024.

 The 10-acre land was designated for a housing project, with 1,900 units to be constructed in phase 1.

The Court of Appeal on Friday, November 8, found that the process used by private developers to acquire over 100 residential houses in Woodley was fraudulent, illegal, null and void.

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