Evict forest squatters, commissioner orders

Bungoma County Commissioner Mohamed Maalim chats with the County Administration Police Commander Paul Soi during this year Jamhuri day celebrations at Masinde Muliro Kanduyi Stadium on 2015. Maalim revealed that they have arrested four notorious Sabaot Land Defense Force remnants who have been terrorizing residents of the County. (PHOTO: TITUS OTEBA/STANDARD)

Bungoma County Commissioner Maalim Mohammed has ordered the eviction of individuals who have built temporary structures in Mt Elgon forest.

He also warned Kenya Forest Service (KFS) rangers against laxity, saying the forest was a crucial water tower that must be protected.

The Government last month issued a two-week notice for people staying in the gazetted government forest to vacate or face eviction. The notice expires on Wednesday.

Maalim clarified that the eviction targets those staying inside Mt Elgon forest and not those on the Chepkitale Trust Land.

The commissioner also authorised his security team to ensure charcoal burning in the forest is stopped.

"Mt Elgon is one of the five major water towers in the country and must be protected by all means," he said.

He lauded the Ogiek for being at the forefront in conserving the environment.