Residents in Garissa County are yet to come to terms with thoughts of possible eviction and demolition after their houses were marked.
According to Garissa Governor aspirant Ali Korane, rendering hundreds of families homeless is unlawful as many of the residents will suffer when their houses are demolished.
The aspirant said a team of surveyors has been going round marking houses and other structures in various areas in the county with the aim of demolition or relocation, without a word to the public.
He said the start of the survey and re-planning of congested Garissa town is illegal as many of the public and key stakeholders are unaware of the plans.
Korane, who called for the immediate halt of the plans said it is a sensitive matter that should follow legal procedures that include, among other issues, public participation.
“Somebody cannot wake up one day and start planning the town. This is a recipe for disaster. People are very fearful they may lose their property, houses.”
“We know land is an emotive issue and especially when it touches on the landless and squatters. It’s true that the town is congested and poorly planned, but any process meant to correct this should be treated with sensitivity,” said Mr Korane.