Ogiek wants more time to leave forest

BUNGOMA: Leaders in Mt Elgon have appealed to Bungoma County Commissioner to postpone the eviction of the Ogiek community from Chepkitale forest. They said they were not opposed to the State directive but would want to discuss the option of compensation for the evictees. Addressing the press in Bungoma yesterday, local politician Peter Kiboi said the Ogiek may be forced to go to court to stop forceful eviction from the forest. He said if an agreement cannot be reached with County Commissioner Maalim Mohamed, the Ogiek may ask Deputy Presdent William Ruto to intervene. The community, which lives in forests, has asked to be resettled elsewhere if all options fail. Kiboi said the Ogiek need more time to move out of the forest. The government has said those living in forests have to be relocated to stop the destruction of this natural habitat.