Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, on Thursday, December 11, led a group of Lang’ata residents in a protest over planned evictions linked to the Affordable Housing Project.
In an update, the MP said the demonstration was aimed at ensuring the government listens to the affected community before any relocation takes place.
"Today, together with the MCA for Nyayo Highrise, we led residents of Soweto Zone B to the Ministry of Housing to present a petition outlining their concerns before relocation for the Affordable Housing Project," he said.
Jalang'o added that the discussions with government officials led to an agreement to stop the planned evictions until all stakeholders are involved and a transparent process is undertaken.
"We agreed that the planned eviction will be halted until proper public participation is conducted and all the issues raised by residents are fully addressed," he added.
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Elsewhere, this comes days after 63 people were arrested in Kakamega County following deadly clashes over contested gold mining operations.
The death toll from the violent confrontation in Isulu, Ikolomani, rose to four after a victim succumbed to gunshot injuries while undergoing treatment at Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Three additional individuals with gunshot wounds remain hospitalized at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Referral Hospital in Kisumu, alongside two police officers who were seriously injured during the unrest and are reportedly in critical condition.
Among those detained are Idaho Central MCA Akidias Liyai and nominated MCA Anne Muluwale, who authorities allege funded the demonstrations.
Survivor Victor Alvin described his narrow escape from death after being shot during the protests. Another victim's family recounted how their relative was struck by a bullet in the leg while standing near a shop in Isulu.
Outside Kakamega Central Police Station, distressed families gathered demanding the release of relatives arrested during late-night raids.
The group accused law enforcement of harassment during door-to-door operations conducted throughout the affected area.
The violence erupted when police confronted demonstrators protesting proposed mining activities in the region.
The controversy centers on a British-based mining company's announcement of discovering one of Kenya's largest gold deposits, valued at approximately KSh683 billion.
The firm's feasibility assessment indicates that roughly 337 acres of mainly private land would be required for extraction, potentially forcing around 800 families from their homes.
