The CEO of Anyok Holdings, Clemence Gyato, is standing by the decision to pull down buildings in the Kaajaano fishing community.
According to Mr Gyato, the move is a necessary step to clear the area because people had settled illegally on government-owned land intended for coastal development.
“This land was acquired under an executive instrument and designated as Coconut Plantation. From the sea across the road, down to the shooting range is government land. It adjoins the Marine Drive project,” he explained.
Mr. Gyato shared that his team spent years talking to the people living there before taking action.
He also noted that the process remained calm.
“This exercise is long overdue. We have been here several times to engage the squatters. The place was previously occupied by the Fisheries Department. The exercise has been peaceful, and we even assisted them to salvage their belongings. The aim is to decongest the seafront for proper development,” he said.
On the other side of the issue, local leaders worry about the families who no longer have homes.
Alfredos Anyetei, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for La Dadekotopon, says the Assembly is now rushing to help those caught in the middle.
He described the situation as a sudden humanitarian crisis for the displaced residents.
“This happened just out of the blue. I understand they were given notices last year, but that was several months ago. It has now given the Assembly the responsibility to find ways to assist those affected to start life afresh,” he said.
To manage the fallout, the MCE sent a team from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to the site.
These officials are currently counting the victims and figuring out exactly what kind of help they need to survive the coming days.
“Our NADMO team is assessing the situation to know the number of people affected and the quantity of relief items available to distribute,” he noted.
