Mavoko MP Patrick Makau has demanded that the government compensates residents of Kwa Mang'eli Farm in Athi River before evicting them to pave way for construction of the Standard Gauge Railway.
Makau, who visited the farm on Wednesday, told the press that construction works have already started at the farm with many of the residents' properties being destroyed.
"These people who live here have undergone heavy losses and the due process to acquire this land was not followed at all. We understand that everywhere that this railway is passing there is compulsory acquisition of land by the government but those affected are being compensated. Why not here?" lamented Makau.
Makau said he is not opposed to the railway passing through Kwa Mang'eli Farm but said it cannot be done by force. The MP claimed that grabbers from Nairobi are acquiring title deeds for the lands so as to be compensated handsomely by the government.
“This farm was acquired by Mzee Mang'eli in 1974 but until today he has never been issued with a title deed. Now they want those living here to go empty handed because they are saying without a title deed there is no compensation," added Makau. Residents have, however vowed, to stay put until they get justice.