The long-standing issue of Mau Forest evictions and resettlement is resurging as a prominent political topic in Kenya's Rift Valley ahead of the 2027 elections, with President William Ruto facing pressure to fulfill unkept promises from previous administrations.

• Over 61,000 people were reportedly targeted in past evictions aimed at conserving the Mau Forest Complex.
• Affected families have received promises of resettlement and compensation, including 2,000 families who were given Sh300,000 each, but many feel this is insufficient.
• The issue has been a recurring campaign theme for at least 21 years, involving past presidents like Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta, as well as influential figures like former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
• President Ruto has pledged to resettle 12,000 families, with funds expected after the 2025-2026 budget cycle, though the exact number of affected families and the extent of compensation remain debated.