MPs differ with Balala over Sh28b building

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala.

Kilifi North leaders have faulted Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala's objection of building of a Sh28b structure.

The leaders from Watamu vowed to ensure that the proposed construction of the 61 storey building, christened Palm Exotica goes "goes on as planned."

Their calls came days after Mr Balala (right) opposed the planned construction saying that the structure was "very near the Watamu beach" and was planned on a "very small plot."

“I have already raised my objection with the National Environmental Management Authority (Nema). If they want to build such a skyscraper, they should do it in Nairobi or Mombasa, not on the beach of Watamu,” he said.

Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, however, said the construction should go on because "it would create thousands of job opportunities" to area residents.

Dabaso ward MCA Emmanuel Changawa, where the building was planned to sit, vowed to mobilise locals to ensure the construction was realised.

The building is poised to be 370 meters tall and will be the tallest in the region if plans to construct succeed.

It is expected to host a 270-bed hotel, shopping malls, office suits, conference rooms, casinos, clubs among other amenities.