Expansion of road project sparks outcry over land rights

A road expansion project by the Nyamira County Government has ignited protests in Kiamonyinga, Bokeira Ward, with residents decrying the alleged encroachment on private land and a lack of due process.

The contentious works, involving the County have drawn sharp criticism from a human rights organization threatening legal action.

At the heart of the dispute is the manner in which the road works were executed, particularly the roles of the county government plant operator and the local assistant chief.

Residents claim the expansion of what is designated as a public road has illegally extended onto private property, causing damage and distress.

Juhudi Africa, a human rights organization, has intervened, with representative Benard Nyamwaro condemning the actions of the county government and the area Assistant Chief.

Nyamwaro vowed to seek judicial interpretation in such matters. He intends to petition the court to determine whether the Assistant Chief possesses the legal mandate to direct county government operations on private land for road expansion, and crucially, whether proper public participation and consultation with residents took place.

Nyamwaro has called upon the Governor, area Member of County Assembly and the County Commissioner to clarify their positions on the issue.

He warned that, in absence of clear accountability, the Assistant Chief should be held solely responsible for the current predicament.

Onesmus Ogwora, the aggrieved landowner, recounted how his property was trespassed upon during the expansion of the approximately 5-kilometer road. 

He claims significant damage was inflicted on his building construction materials as a result of the unapproved works.

Ogwora further alleged that the road expansion was conducted in a "skewed manner," as the widening was not applied uniformly to both sides of the road.

The Nyamira County Government is currently undertaking a county-wide road construction program utilizing newly acquired equipment, a move aimed at reducing costs. 

However, this initiative now faces a significant challenge as residents and human rights advocates demand adherence to land rights and established legal procedures.