A public participation meeting on a proposed development inside Imenti Forest turned chaotic on Wednesday after an environmental activist was interrupted by members of the audience and later escorted out by police.
The meeting had been organised by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to collect public views on the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the planned construction of a State Lodge, an airstrip and a golf course within the forest. The exercise was expected to allow residents, environmental groups and other stakeholders to give their opinions before any decision is made on the project.
Tension rose when environmental activist KamaNu M’tuamwari stood up to present a petition opposing the planned development.
The petition reportedly contained more than 7,000 signatures from people who do not support the project.
However, before he could complete his presentation, sections of the crowd began shouting at him, making it difficult for him to continue speaking.
Videos shared online showed the activist being heckled as the situation became increasingly tense. Police officers later stepped in and escorted him out of the meeting to restore order.
The disruption interrupted the forum and shifted attention away from the discussions that had been planned.
Following the incident, Greenpeace Africa claimed the meeting had been disrupted by politically motivated individuals. The organisation argued that the public participation process should allow all views to be heard without intimidation.
Those opposed to the project say the planned construction could affect the protected forest ecosystem and damage an important environmental resource.
The meeting took place as legal questions continue to surround the proposed development. Reports indicate that a court has suspended the public participation exercise after concerns were raised over the notice issued before the meeting.
Those challenging the process argued that the 24-hour notice given to the public was not enough time for meaningful participation.
Despite the concerns, the Kenya Forest Service has maintained that the project is expected to occupy about 11 hectares of land and says the environmental impact will be minimal. The agency has also encouraged members of the public to continue submitting their views in writing before the July 21 deadline.
The events at the forum have added to the growing debate over the future of Imenti Forest, with supporters and opponents of the project now waiting for both the legal process and the public consultation to determine the next steps.
