A political storm is intensifying in Nairobi after the County Assembly passed a censure motion against the Chief Officer for Housing and Urban Renewal, Lydia Mathia, over her controversial role in recent forceful evictions that have sparked public outrage and legal scrutiny.
The motion, tabled by Ngara MCA Chege Mwaura and passed with overwhelming support on Thursday, June 26, accuses Mathia of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and deliberate violation of constitutional rights. It comes on the heels of weeks of protests from Nairobi residents who say they were unlawfully evicted from their homes, despite the existence of active court orders halting the demolitions.
Affected areas include Old Ngara, New Ngara, Kariako, Buruburu, Kariobangi, and Woodley estates, among others.
Residents have told harrowing stories of being ambushed by unknown individuals believed to have been hired to carry out demolitions under the cover of darkness. Personal belongings were destroyed, homes were razed, and families were left stranded, with many saying the evictions occurred without notice or legal justification.
“I had just left City Hall when I got a call. By the time I returned, my house had been broken into, my bags had been taken, and strangers were walking around with my clothes,” recounted one Buruburu resident, whose testimony reflects the chaos many endured.
During the heated debate at the Assembly, MCAs cited Mathia’s disregard for Article 10(2)(a) and Article 73(1)(a) of the Constitution, which uphold national values and principles of public service, including adherence to court orders. The Assembly accused her of running what they described as a “mafia-style” demolition racket that not only defied the law but also undermined public trust in county governance.
While the Assembly resolved to reinstate tenancy for affected residents and demanded accountability, it remains unclear whether victims will be compensated. The Nairobi County Public Service Board is expected to initiate disciplinary action, though Mathia has yet to issue a formal response to the censure.
As public pressure mounts and investigations loom, the case underscores deep tensions over urban renewal, land use, and the rule of law in Kenya’s capital.
