The dispute over planned gold mining activities in Ramula, Gem Yala Sub-County, has taken a fresh twist after Siaya Governor James Orengo announced that his administration will not issue a crucial approval letter to Shanta Gold Mining Company.
Governor Orengo said the county government has withheld the “letter of no objection” required for the company to proceed, citing lack of public participation.
He emphasized that consent must extend beyond landowners to all affected parties.
Speaking while addressing hundreds of Ramula residents at the county government headquarters, Orengo invoked Article 10 of the Constitution, stressing that no resident can be forcefully evicted from their land without proper consultation.
He pointed to Tanzania as an example where communities were sensitized before mining projects commenced.
Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju also weighed in, questioning the ownership of Shanta Gold Company.
Tuju revealed that he has engaged a lawyer in England to investigate the firm’s real owners, with the intention of filing a case in London.
He accused the company of exploiting Kenyans and vowed to resist its operations.
Local representatives echoed the call for suspension of mining activities. William Oricho, speaking for farm owners, and human rights activist Fredrick Ojiro demanded that Shanta Gold halt operations until the dispute is resolved.
Ojiro further appealed to Governor Orengo to enlist international human rights organizations to document alleged abuses in Ramula.
Meanwhile, survivors of the recent Ramula arson attack have demanded urgent government protection, warning Governor Orengo against politicizing their suffering.
Six houses were torched and 47 people displaced during anti-mining demonstrations on Monday.
The victims accused the governor of misleading the public by claiming that General Service Unit officers were behind the destruction.
Led by Francis Obwanda and Stephen Omondi, the survivors insisted that the attacks were carried out by fellow villagers opposed to their cooperation with the mining company.
Other displaced persons, including Julias Omondi and Dorcas Adhiambo, echoed frustration, accusing local leaders of silence and neglect.
They criticized the area MCA for failing to visit or speak out, and warned the governor to stop inciting people against them.
The victims, who had agreed to relocate after the company offered compensation options, demanded justice and government intervention.
They called for the arrest of perpetrators and guarantees of security, underscoring that the mounting opposition has now widened to include both leaders and residents pressing for transparency, accountability, and respect for constitutional rights before any mining activity can proceed.
