The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has strongly condemned the ongoing government-led project to clear indigenous trees in the Watamu Chief’s area, which the party asserts is the last remaining public green space and small forest in the coastal town.
This move, according to the LDP, is a direct violation of the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and poses a serious threat to the environment, the health of the local community, and the broader ecological system.
Violation of Constitutional Rights
The party highlighted that the destruction of this vital green space goes against several key constitutional provisions, particularly Articles 42 and 69. Article 42 guarantees every Kenyan the right to a clean and healthy environment, while Article 69 places a responsibility on the state to protect, conserve, and ensure the sustainable use of the environment.
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The LDP warns that clearing these trees not only undermines these constitutional rights but also jeopardizes the social, environmental, and mental well-being of the Watamu community.
Trees Are Life
LDP emphasized the importance of trees in sustaining ecosystems, regulating climate, and contributing to public health.
In a statement, the party affirmed: “Trees sustain life. They support ecosystems, regulate climate, and ensure the survival of future generations.”
The LDP insists that any development that involves the destruction of trees without adequate justification, consultation, or long-term sustainability is not true progress, but a form of environmental destruction.
Contradiction to Climate Change Commitments
The LDP also pointed out that this project goes against Kenya’s obligations under the Climate Change Act, the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), and international climate commitments.
These legal frameworks require the country to protect forests, biodiversity, and natural carbon sinks. The clearing of indigenous trees in Watamu, they argue, is a retrogressive move in the face of climate change.
Cultural and Environmental Heritage at Risk
Indigenous trees, the LDP stresses, are an essential part of both national and community heritage. Their destruction, the party contends, is not just an environmental issue but also one of cultural identity.
“Erasing this heritage for short-term or poorly planned development undermines environmental justice and intergenerational equity,” said an LDP spokesperson.
The party calls for the immediate suspension of the project and insists that all public green spaces be protected.
Lack of Public Participation
The LDP also condemned the lack of meaningful public participation in the decision-making process, citing Article 10 of the Constitution and the County Governments Act, which require transparency and inclusivity in decisions affecting public land and resources.
“The community has not been properly consulted, and this raises serious concerns about accountability and governance,” the party stated.
Allegations of Political Intimidation
In a concerning development, the LDP has received reports alleging that certain political leaders, including Hon. Matumbo, the area Member of County Assembly, and Hon. Owen Baya, Member of Parliament for Kilifi North, are allegedly involved in mobilizing support for the project through intimidation or inducements.
The LDP called for an independent investigation into these allegations, warning that such conduct, if proven, would be a grave betrayal of public trust.
Threat to Watamu’s Economy and Tourism
Watamu is a globally recognized tourist destination, with its identity and economy deeply rooted in its natural environment.
The destruction of its last remaining public green space poses a threat not only to the local ecosystem but also to the town’s tourism industry and livelihoods.
“The loss of this vital green space will have far-reaching economic consequences, including a decline in tourism and the loss of ecological sustainability,” warned the LDP.
Call for Accountability and Immediate Action.
In conclusion, the LDP has called for the immediate suspension of all activities related to the clearing of trees in the Watamu Chief’s area.
The party demands full constitutional compliance, accountability from all involved leaders, and a transparent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project.
The LDP has also called on the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to weigh in on the matter and provide a public pronouncement on the issue.
Rally for Action
The LDP has vowed to stand firm with the people of Watamu in defending their environmental rights and heritage. In a show of solidarity, the party will hold a public rally on December 29th at the site to rally behind the residents and stop what they term an act of “impunity” by the government.
“We guarantee the people of Watamu that we shall stand with them in protecting the environmental integrity of the area,” said the party leader.
As this situation unfolds, all eyes are on the government to reconsider its actions and engage with the community in a more transparent and accountable manner. The future of Watamu’s last green space hangs in the balance.