MPs warn against politicising Mau forest evictions

https://www.nation.co.ke/news/politics/MPs-warn-against-politicising-Mau-forest-evictions/1064-4679838-vnpp0o/index.html


Mau Forest locals evicted on July 20, 2018. Four MPs from the Maa community have warned against politicising the ongoing Mau forest evictions. PHOTO | FILE | NATION MEDIA GROUP

In Summary

• The lawmakers regretted that politicians have politicised the Mau matter at the expense of environmental conservation.
• The MPs, however, urged the government to carry out the exercise in a humane manner and compensate those with genuine title deeds.

Four Members of Parliament from the Maa community have warned against politicising the ongoing Mau forest evictions, saying this could lead to ethnic tension.

The MPs – Gabriel Tongoyo (Narok West), Lemanken Aramat (Narok East), Korei Ole Lemein (Narok South) and nominated MP David ole Sankok – said they fully support the government’s move to evict illegal settlers in the Mau forest.

“We want to warn leaders visiting Mau residents to avoid making statements that are tribal, that might incite the people,” Mr Aramat said.

“The Mau issue is very emotive and therefore politicians should not incite people who have been living together peacefully for years,” said Mr Ole Lemein.