- Eldoret residents have protested the extension of Kipchoge Keino Stadium near a cemetery.
- Huruma Ward MCA Kimani wa Wanjohi says affected communities were not consulted.
- Protesters argue that exhumation of bodies requires a court order.
- Businesses and residents want authorities to engage all affected stakeholders.
- Construction of a perimeter fence near the cemetery has triggered fresh concerns.
A section of residents from Eldoret City have staged protests against the planned extension of Kipchoge Keino Stadium into a nearby cemetery, accusing authorities of failing to involve the community before construction works began.
The demonstrations were led by Huruma Ward MCA Kimani wa Wanjohi, who said residents only learned about the development after work had already started near the burial site.
Speaking during the protest in Eldoret, Wanjohi argued that projects affecting communities and burial grounds must be subjected to proper public participation. He said the affected residents had not been consulted and were demanding an explanation from the relevant authorities.
The MCA maintained that any decision touching on a cemetery should involve families, local leaders and businesses operating in the surrounding area.
Wanjohi further stated that exhumation of bodies can only be carried out through a court order. According to him, no such order has been presented in relation to the ongoing works near the cemetery.
The protesters said they were concerned that due process may not have been followed and warned against any actions that could interfere with graves without legal authorization.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium is currently undergoing construction works, and a perimeter fence is being erected close to the cemetery. Residents said the proximity of the new boundary has heightened fears that the burial site could eventually be affected by the expansion project.
Several business owners operating near the cemetery joined the protest and called for immediate consultations before further work proceeds.
Community members urged the county government and other agencies involved in the project to hold open meetings with all affected stakeholders. They said transparent communication would help address fears and prevent unnecessary tension.
The residents also asked authorities to provide clear maps and plans showing the exact extent of the stadium works and whether any part of the cemetery is targeted.
Protesters insisted that the dignity of those buried at the cemetery must be protected at all times. They said development projects should be implemented in a manner that respects cultural practices, legal requirements and the rights of families with relatives buried there.
The dispute has added a new layer of controversy to the ongoing redevelopment of Kipchoge Keino Stadium, a key sporting facility in Uasin Gishu County and one of Kenya’s major athletics venues.
As construction continues, residents say they will keep pressing for public participation, legal compliance and full disclosure before any expansion near the cemetery is allowed to proceed.
