In a series of changes announced by police headquarters following the eviction of residents in Voi, Taita Taveta, the Coast region has a new police commander. The former North Eastern regional police commander, George Sedah, was appointed as the new Coast commander on January 7.
The reshuffling also affected Taita Taveta county commander Patrick Okeri, who was recalled to police headquarters, and Voi subcounty commander Bernstein Shari. The new Voi police commander is Ibrahim Daffala, while William Kiplangat has taken over at Taita Taveta.
These changes stem from demolitions that occurred on Saturday, leaving over 3,500 residents of Msambweni in Voi, Taita Taveta, homeless. The police, escorting a demolition squad, invaded the area without informing top officials in Nairobi, leading to an inquiry directed by Inspector General Japhet Koome. The Taita Taveta county police commander and sub-county police commander were summoned to headquarters for questioning.
The disputed land is claimed by Sparkle Properties, alleging purchase from the Bara Shoe Company. However, residents dispute this claim, asserting decades-long occupancy after Bata failed to develop the land as per the lease agreement.
In response to the demolitions, Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime attempted to reach out to national government leaders to intervene but faced unsuccessful attempts as calls went unanswered. Opposition leader Raila Odinga condemned the demolitions, accusing President William Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza administration of forceful evictions. Odinga criticized the government for failing to provide adequate notice, compensation, and alternative settlements for the affected residents, who were left homeless in the midst of harsh weather and an economic crisis.
