Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar has opposed the urban renewal and redevelopment of old estates within the county.
Speaking in his Kizingo office on Monday, Omar termed the project as a move to privatize the public houses.
"I have learnt that the county government of Mombasa intends to proceeded with plans to sell off public houses and estates in Mombasa. In fact, forceful eviction of tenants will be done in the course of this month to pave way for the project,” said Omar.
"I can confirm to the governor of Mombasa (Hassan Joho), that upon his exit this year, the new administration under my leadership will have the necessary capacity to put together plans for financing of the renewal program without selling or disposing public assets,” he added.
He said private developers were initially meant to carry out the project at Vikatwani, in the outskirts of Mombasa, but later targeted the public estates within the town due to poor infrastructure in the area.
The aspiring governor has urged affected tenants not to vacate their houses.
"All those individuals who intend to buy off part of Mombasa County's public assets should be warned that they risk an irreparable loss. Public houses are not for sale and all tenants should stay put even if the county government refuses to receive their rent," he added.
According to the county government, the project is aimed at providing affordable housing to residents.