The Environment and Land Court has issued temporary orders halting the demolition of hundreds of homes in Makongeni Estate, offering urgent relief to residents facing eviction over a government-backed affordable housing project.
Justice Charles Mbogo certified the case as urgent on Monday and granted conservatory orders suspending all demolitions, evictions, and displacement in the estate. The ruling also instructed the restoration of water and electricity services, which residents claimed were deliberately cut during the operation.
Residents Challenge Government Redevelopment
The court action followed a petition by the Makongeni Residents Association and five individuals. They argued that the exercise, led by the Kenya Railways Staff Retirement Benefits Scheme with support from the State Department for Housing and the Affordable Housing Board, was unlawful and violated constitutional protections.
“Pending the hearing and determination of the application, no demolitions or removal of property shall continue,” Justice Mbogo ruled. The matter is scheduled for an inter-partes hearing alongside an earlier application filed on November 19, 2025.
Families Rush to Salvage Belongings
Bulldozers had moved into the estate earlier on Monday, prompting residents to salvage furniture and belongings under the looming December 2 demolition deadline. Many families have lived in the railway-built houses for over 60 years.
The government maintains the redevelopment aims to replace ageing units with modern high-rise blocks. It claims tenants received Sh150,000 disturbance allowances. The residents on the other hand argue the compensation is insufficient and the process heavy-handed.
Affordable Housing Programme Faces Legal Challenges
The Makongeni standoff is the latest flashpoint in President William Ruto’s affordable housing initiative. Similar disputes have emerged in Mukuru kwa Njenga and other informal settlements, prompting legal challenges and accusations of forced evictions.
