Nairobi — Chepalungu MP Isaac Ruto has asked the Environment minister John Michuki to consult with local leaders over the fate of people living in Mau Forest.

The MP on Thursday complained about statements made by the minister after he made an aerial tour of the forest, saying his decision was unilateral.

The MP pleaded with the minister to approach matters of human and environmental conflict at Mau Forest with an open mind. "He should look at the facts because his declared solution that eviction of inhabitants will retain trees and catchment areas in the forest is not right," he stated.

Mr Michuki on Wednesday decried the wanton destruction of forests in the Mau complex as a result of illegal logging and human encroachment.

The minister said following his fact-finding mission, he was now in agreement with his cabinet colleague William ole Ntimama that those encroaching on forests should be evicted.

Addressing a press conference at Parliament Buildings, however, Mr Ruto asked the Environment minister to look at various court rulings made on the issue in the past.

The Chepalungu MP said MPs from the Rift Valley region were preparing a statement on the same matter.