Residents of Ramula in Siaya County, Kenya, are planning to take legal action against government officials and directors of Shanta Gold, accusing them of disregarding a court order that bars the company from forcing residents off their land. The court order, issued earlier, prohibited Shanta Gold from using coercion or force to compel residents to surrender their land for gold prospecting and mining activities.
According to the residents' lawyer, Willis Ochieng, the mining firm, the Inspector General of Police, Gem Yala Sub-County Police Commander, and the area Officer Commanding Station (OCS) have all disregarded the court directive. Ochieng warned the Ministry of Interior against allowing security agencies to enforce actions that contradict the court's directions, emphasizing that the court order was clear about not allowing forced evictions.
The dispute centers on access to land and mining rights in Ramula, where residents have raised concerns over Shanta Gold's prospecting activities and the implications for private land ownership. Ochieng maintained that the court had affirmed the private ownership of the land, arguing that residents could only surrender it voluntarily and without intimidation. This, he said, is in line with the court's affirmation of the residents' private property rights.
Ochieng also accused Shanta Gold of continuing with illegal gold prospecting activities in the area despite the court ruling. He called on the Principal Secretary for Mining to revoke the prospecting license issued to the company, arguing that the licensing process had violated constitutional requirements. The lawyer emphasized that the prospecting license was issued without following the Constitution.
The residents have threatened to pursue legal action against those they accuse of disregarding the court order if the alleged violations persist. This move comes as a warning to the company and government officials to adhere to the court's directive. The residents, through their lawyer, are prepared to take further action to protect their rights and interests.
The issue has sparked concerns among residents and stakeholders, who are watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. The court's ruling and the residents' determination to enforce it have significant implications for land ownership and mining activities in the area. The case highlights the challenges that arise when mining interests conflict with private property rights.
Key stakeholders, including government officials and representatives from Shanta Gold, have not yet commented on the situation. However, the residents remain resolute in their determination to protect their land and rights. The situation in Ramula continues to develop, with residents prepared to take further action if necessary.
Key points
- The court order bars Shanta Gold from forcing residents off their land for gold prospecting and mining activities.
- Residents accuse Shanta Gold and police of disregarding the court directive.
- The dispute centers on access to land and mining rights in Ramula.
