The battle to reclaim Mau forest is slowly turning political with Rift Valley politicians now pointing fingers at CS Kerifako Tobiko and regional commissioner George Natembeya.
In a press conference on Wednesday, the leaders insisted that the ongoing evictions were planned and executed by the two without approval by government.
Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen insisted that President Uhuru Kenyatta is not aware of the evictions, adding that even the cabinet has not been briefed.
“I dare say that Keriako Tobiko should be called out for insubordinating the president & carrying out processes that have not been approved by the gov’t of Kenya," he said.
"The Government of Kenya has not approved any Evictions! I say it with authority that President Uhuru or Cabinet have not approved any eviction or closure of schools," added Murkomen.
On Tuesday, Emurua Dikir MP Johanna Ng'eno was arrested along with two MCAs for allegedly sabotaging the exercise. They are yet to be charged.
The government rescinded on its earlier decision to close 15 schools in Mau forest, saying that learners and their families have up to 60 days to vacate.
“We have resolved to open all the 15 schools so as not to be seen like the government does not care. Children will continue attending classes in those schools as the eviction goes on, since eviction will take 60 days," Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya said on Tuesday.
Despite the controversy, President Uhuru Kenyatta and DP William Ruto are yet to come out explicitly over the matter that has divided Rift Valley leaders.