Court halts demolitions for Outer Ring road expansion
Kariobangi residents on Tuesday obtained a temporary reprieve after a high court judge halted an intended demolition of their residential houses to pave way for the expansion of Outer Ring road.
The residents accused the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (Kura) and Sino Hydro Corporation Limited of earmarking several plots at Kariobangi Light Industries for demolition without following due process.
In their suit, they pleaded with the judge to stop the impending demolition because the property is not a road reserve. They also claimed that the land has not been acquired by the state for public purpose hence the demolition of their houses would be illegal.
MAINTAIN STATUS QUO
High Court judge Mumbi Ngugi ordered that the status quo be maintained until the matter is heard on Thursday.
“Kura has continued to undertake works on the property, they have gone to the extent of affecting the existing easement over the property, they are afraid this might expose them to lawsuits,” lawyer Kelvin Mogeni told the judge.
The residents also blamed Kura of failing to consult the National Lands Commission and that it arbitrarily intends to deprive them off their property.
They alleged that they have been limited and restricted from enjoying their rights without due process.
They want the court to completely bar KURA and the construction company from entering, remaining or in any way interfering with their land.
They are also seeking compensation should Kura proceed with demolition.
The case will be heard on June 11.