Kisumu residents in Milimani Estate have accused the local country government of sparing a property that had been earmarked for demolition because it belongs to a tycoon.
The Asian tycoon is also on the spot for his building which is allegedly on a public road.
Locals claim that other people’s houses on the road reserve were demolished but Jayesh Patel’s building, which has blocked a three-meter pathway of Jobita Road, was spared.
On December 17, 2020, the county government gave notice to owners of two parcels of land, Kisumu/Block 8/259 and Kisumu/Block 8/211, to demolish their house walls.
The county government demolished only one wall.
In response to the residents’ outcry, Patel claimed that he purchased the property over 10 years ago and he was not aware the land was on a public road.
A letter by Kisumu County Director of Surveys Rogers Kobado following a survey of the road indicated that the three-meter-wide pathway cut through parcel numbers Kisumu/Block 8/259 and Kisumu/Block 8/211, connecting Jobita Road with an adjacent road had been blocked by a stone wall.
The letter dates December 17, 2020, and addressed to the Chief Officer Lands, Survey and Physical Planning, however, noted that despite the perimeter fences of the two parcels having been clearly defined, a block fence had been constructed, sealing off the road.
“By this letter, I hereby confirm that the proprietor can be addressed to open the right of access as defined by this official map,” read the letter in part, referring to a map that was attached.
Kisumu City Manager, Abala Wanga, said he had visited the building which he confirmed encroaches on the land meant for a public road.
He, however, said after discussions, the proprietor said the road had been sealed off because for security reasons.
“Several people have suffered due to the ongoing demolitions in the town. Why are some people given the opportunity to be heard even after it is found that they encroached on public land?” complained one of the residents.
