The demolition of homes in Nairobi’s Woodley Estate on Monday night has drawn sharp criticism from the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with the party condemning the action as a “colonial approach that has no place in contemporary Kenya.”
In a statement, Acting ODM Party Leader and Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o expressed his deep concerns about the way the demolitions were carried out.
While he expressed support for the redevelopment of Woodley Estate into high-density apartments, he condemned the timing of the demolitions, which took place under the cover of darkness, calling it both inhumane and unacceptable.
“A more compassionate and organized approach would have been to build new high-density housing elsewhere and then relocate the residents there,” Nyong’o stated.
“Demolishing homes in the dead of night is a colonial practice that should not be tolerated in Kenya today.”
Nyong’o also called on the Nairobi County Government to exercise empathy in implementing the law, urging them not to act as “Pharisees” in their duties but to prioritize the well-being of the citizens.
The ODM leader further argued that the demolitions violated the Constitution, specifically Article 43(1)(b), which guarantees the right to adequate housing, and also contradicted United Nations guidelines on involuntary resettlement.
“Woodley Estate has been home to many prominent figures in Kenya’s history, including Kapenguria Six freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko, Barack Obama Sr., and many other key historical figures,” Nyong’o added.
“It has also housed notable individuals like Argwings Kodhek, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s speechwriter Odinge Odera, and broadcaster Sammy Lui, among others.”
A total of 43 residents lost their homes in the demolitions, with many expressing their opposition to the action, stating they were not consulted beforehand.
