In a compelling turn of events, Yatta sub county member of national assembly Hon. Robert Basil, expressed outrage after witnessing the devastation caused to a 75 year old woman’s farm in Muthesya village, Kithimani ward, Yatta sub county, Machakos county.
The farm, adorned with orange, mango and avocado trees, fell victim to actions of a wealthy individual who claimed ownership of the land and cut down the trees.
Basil, disturbed by the scene, vehemently condemned the act, emphasizing that the wanton destruction of trees was an unacceptable violation of property rights.
"The alleged landowner should have pursued legal avenues if he genuinely believed the land was rightfully his," said Basil.
He further underscored the importance of safeguarding trees for ecological balance and sustainable farming practices.
Basil urged law enforcement to swiftly apprehend the responsible party, advocating for charges of trespass and property destruction.
"Justice has to prevail and set a precedent discouraging such destructive behaviour in the community," said Basil.
Acknowledging the substantial impact on the elderly woman’s livelihood, he urged the ministry of agriculture to assess and quantify the losses, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the economic value of the cut-down trees.