Evictions in Taveta spark outrage as county demands immediate halt
The county government noted that the operations disregarded a High Court order issued on June 25, 2025, which barred any form of eviction or interference with the residents.
The Taita Taveta County Government has condemned what it calls “illegal and violent” evictions in Mkocheni and Kachero villages, Taveta sub-county, in defiance of a valid court order.
County officials say the forced evictions, reportedly conducted by individuals or entities without legitimate land ownership claims, amount to land grabbing, gross human rights violations, and a direct assault on the dignity and safety of residents.
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The county government noted that the operations disregarded a High Court order issued on June 25, 2025, which barred any form of eviction or interference with the residents.
Authorities now describe the move as a blatant contempt of court and a violation of constitutional principles.
In a strongly worded statement, the county stressed that any eviction not sanctioned by a court order and carried out without prior notice, public consultation, or humane resettlement plans is unconstitutional and unlawful.
“The Constitution of Kenya protects individuals from arbitrary deprivation of property (Article 40), guarantees the right to adequate housing (Article 43b), and safeguards human dignity (Article 28).”
Furthermore, the county cited national laws such as the Land Act (2012) and the Prevention, Protection and Assistance to Internally Displaced Persons and Affected Communities Act (2012), both of which require due process, written notices, and safeguards for affected persons before any eviction is conducted.
It added that the use of police without a court-approved order to provide security during such operations constitutes abuse of power and a violation of the law.
The governor's office has directed that all eviction activities in Mkocheni and Kachero cease immediately.
“Legal and land audit teams have been dispatched to investigate ownership claims, document rights violations, and pursue appropriate legal action.”
The county has also instructed its legal counsel to initiate contempt proceedings against those involved in the eviction, accusing them of breaching the June 25, court order.
Additionally, the National Land Commission (NLC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) have been urged to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
“Anyone involved in issuing threats, producing forged documents, or using political influence to dispossess residents of their land will face criminal charges and the land will be restored,” the statement read.
Residents have been urged to remain calm, stay united, and not succumb to intimidation while reporting any threats to the relevant authorities. Security agencies have been reminded to uphold the law and protect citizens from unlawful evictions.
The county also appealed to the national government, civil society, and human rights organisations to support Taita Taveta residents in defending their rights and constitutional freedoms.
“Land belongs to the people, not to land speculators,” the statement noted, vowing that the county government will not allow powerful individuals or faceless entities to seize land unlawfully.
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