Jalang'o Leads Lang'ata Residents in Protests ​​

Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, on Thursday led a group of residents from Soweto Zone B in a protest against planned evictions under the government’s Affordable Housing Project. 

The demonstration, which culminated at the Ministry of Housing offices in Upper Hill, Nairobi, highlighted concerns over relocation procedures, lack of consultation, and compensation issues.

Jalang’o, joined by Nyayo Highrise MCA Kennedy Oyugi, presented a petition on behalf of the affected families. 

The petition demanded transparency and fair treatment before any further action on the evictions could take place.

According to the MP, many residents had not been adequately informed about the eviction timelines or the details of the relocation process. 

“Today, together with the MCA, we took residents to the Ministry of Housing to present their concerns. The voices of families must be heard before any displacement occurs,” Jalang’o said.

Residents participating in the march emphasized that while they support development and affordable housing initiatives, the government must respect due process and ensure all stakeholders are properly consulted.

Carrying placards, whistles, and twigs, the residents marched to Ardhi House along Ngong Road, making their concerns visible to ministry officials. 

The protest was peaceful, but the residents were firm in demanding that their grievances be addressed.

Following discussions with ministry representatives, Jalang’o confirmed that officials had agreed to temporarily halt the planned evictions. 

The suspension would remain in place until proper public participation had been conducted and all issues raised by residents were fully addressed.

“We have reached an understanding with the ministry. No family will be evicted until their concerns are clarified and addressed,” he said.

The protest comes amid ongoing confusion for hundreds of families in Nairobi, particularly in Makadara and Makongeni Estates, which have been earmarked for redevelopment under the Affordable Housing Project. 

Many residents have received eviction notices promising relocation assistance, but a significant number claim they have not been compensated.

Makongeni Estate, home to approximately 40,000 residents, has been at the center of controversy over government-led demolitions to make way for new housing projects. 

The Environment and Land Court had previously issued temporary orders halting evictions and demolitions on November 24. 

However, residents report that some demolitions continued despite the court orders, leaving families anxious about their future.

Jalang’o’s intervention is seen as a critical step in ensuring that the government follows legal procedures and respects residents’ rights before proceeding with redevelopment.

Both residents and local leaders have called for transparency, proper communication, and adequate compensation as essential elements of any relocation program. 

They argue that development projects must balance progress with the rights and welfare of affected communities.

The demonstration in Lang’ata reflects growing concerns among Nairobi residents about how large-scale housing and urban development projects are implemented.