Residents of Highrise Estate in Lang'ata have petitioned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to move the estate from Highrise Ward to neighbouring Nairobi West Ward. They cite inadequate representation and several challenges, including poor roads, limited employment and business opportunities, and inadequate recreational facilities. The petitioners, led by Highrise Estate Residents Association Chairman Kennedy Otieno, argue that the current ward boundaries no longer reflect the estate's geographical, social, and economic realities.
The residents claim that they have tried to engage with their ward leadership and the Nairobi County administration, but their concerns have not been addressed. They also point to population pressure, citing that the boundaries were based on demographic data from the 2009 census. According to the petition, Highrise Ward covered about 0.4 square kilometres and had a population of 24,191, while Nairobi West Ward covered about 6.9 square kilometres and had a population of 33,377.
The petitioners include traders, boda boda riders, church leaders, youth, and other residents who are affected by the current ward boundaries. They argue that the change in boundaries would allow them to access county programmes and services more effectively. The residents are seeking a review of the ward boundaries to reflect the current population and geographical changes in the area.
The IEBC is responsible for reviewing and adjusting electoral boundaries to ensure that they are fair and equitable. The commission has been conducting a review of ward boundaries in Nairobi County, and the petition from Highrise Estate residents is part of this process. The IEBC will consider the petition and other submissions from residents and stakeholders before making any decisions on ward boundaries.
The issue of ward boundaries is a critical one in Kenya, as it affects the delivery of services and representation at the local level. The Constitution of Kenya requires that electoral boundaries be reviewed periodically to ensure that they remain fair and equitable. The IEBC has been working to implement this requirement, but the process has been challenging due to the complexity of the issues involved.
The petition from Highrise Estate residents highlights the challenges faced by communities in urban areas, where rapid population growth and urbanization have put pressure on infrastructure and services. The residents are seeking a solution to their problems through the review of ward boundaries, and their petition will be considered as part of the IEBC's ongoing review process.
The outcome of the petition is not yet clear, but it is likely that the IEBC will consider the concerns of the Highrise Estate residents and other stakeholders as it reviews ward boundaries in Nairobi County. The commission's decision will have implications for the delivery of services and representation in the area, and residents will be watching closely to see how it unfolds.
Key points
- Residents of Highrise Estate in Lang'ata petition IEBC to change ward boundaries
- Petitioners cite inadequate representation, poor roads, and limited employment opportunities
- IEBC to consider petition as part of ongoing review of ward boundaries in Nairobi County
