By Afrireport 
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has raised alarm over what he termed as violent and unlawful actions by police officers against residents of Mukuru kwa Njenga.
He called for immediate de escalation through dialogue and compensation rather than forceful evictions.
Sakaja spoke amid growing tension in the informal settlement. He said it was unfortunate that residents were allegedly being attacked by the police. Residents were also forced to vacate their homes.
Despite ongoing efforts by the county government to address the matter amicably.
The governor emphasized that the situation risked escalating into a humanitarian crisis. It could also become a security crisis if not handled with sensitivity. Respect for the law is crucial.
We want to de-escalate this situation through compensation,” Sakaja said, adding that residents should not be subjected to violence or intimidation. He maintained that any planned development or infrastructure project must follow due process and involve consultation with affected communities.
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The governor was particularly critical of what he described as the involvement of agencies operating outside their legal mandate.
“No agency can do work that belongs to the county government,” Sakaja stated firmly. He insisted that land use planning, housing, and resettlement fall squarely under the county’s constitutional functions.
Residents of Mukuru kwa Njenga have reported chaos in recent days, with claims of demolitions, destruction of property, and confrontations with security officers.
Human rights groups and local leaders have also expressed concern, urging authorities to protect vulnerable families.
This includes women and children, from displacement without adequate notice or alternative housing.
Sakaja reiterated the county government’s commitment to orderly urban development. This development respects the rights and dignity of Nairobi’s residents.
He said compensation and structured resettlement were key pillars of the county’s approach to informal settlement upgrading.
The Mukuru kwa Njenga area has previously been earmarked for redevelopment under various housing and infrastructure initiatives.
Disputes over land ownership, compensation, and coordination between government agencies have repeatedly sparked conflict.
As tensions persist, the governor called for calm and restraint, urging national agencies, security forces, and other stakeholders to respect county authority and work collaboratively.
“We must resolve this humanely,” Sakaja said, warning that continued force would only deepen mistrust and suffering among already marginalized communities.
