A company reached an agreement with Mr. Peter and his family in Ntunene-Igembe to build a mask for network coverage in the area.
According to the area Manager, Mr.Silas Munene, the company cleared 30 Miraa crop trees in preparation for the site, but the project has since stalled, leaving a large excavation at the site.
Mr. Peter told Baite Tv that they agreed as a family to enter into an agreement with the company for the construction of the mask. The company officials had promised him that they would deposit funds into account in two weeks.
“They cleared 40 Miraa crops, including beans and maize, and altered the land’s topography. The project has come to a halt, and they have been gathering construction materials en route to Marsabit late at night without my knowledge,” said Mr. Peter.
“I had been informed of their planned departure, but I arrived on a motorcycle and unpacked all of their materials from their lorry. They’ve decided to camp on my property and are staying the night.
“When I called the media, one of the people packing said they were getting ready to leave for Marsabit. I’m giving them five days to send money into my account or I’ll take legal action against them,” he said.
One of the company officials told Baite Tv that the drawing in the initial agreement was for the mask to be erected at a height of 35 meters. It was later changed to 45 meters by the consultant, implying that the hole dug at the foundation level had to be expanded.
“My employer had a disagreement with the consultant company over the initial payment terms and was told that they would reach an agreement with the company later,” he said.
“It was agreed that because there is another project in Marsabit that uses the initial measurements of 35 meters, we should go there and begin construction since we are expected to use the materials at the current site,” he said.
According to Doris Nkirote, a member of the family, the damage has been done to her aunt’s property, and is a widow who is struggling to make ends meet. Due to the difficulties, the family agreed to let the company build a network mask on their property.
“I am pleading with the government to intervene because we cannot afford a legal battle with the company, despite the fact that they have caused us significant losses,” she said.
Isaiah Gitonga said: “We agreed as a family to allow the mask to be built on my land in honor of Mr. Peter. Who is also a family member approached me with the idea. My leg was amputated, and I hoped that once we were paid, my life would change because of the difficulties I was facing.
“The company employees arrived late at night while I was sleeping, and I assumed they had brought more materials. I later heard screams and arguments, and when I went to investigate, I was shocked to learn that the materials were being packed en route to Marsabit.
“I urge the government to intervene so that the company pays for the damage.”
