Kimilili MP Eseli Simiyu has opposed the government's plan to build a multibillion shilling dam in the constituency.

Speaking at a funeral of former education officer for Tongaren division Erastus Mutaki, Eseli said the government should respect the wishes of the people who have raised objected the dam.

The Sh1.4 billion project will cover more than 45 square kilometres and will affect six locations of Bungoma North, Kabuyefwe, Naitiri, Kimilili, Tongaren, Khakamwe and Soi Sambu.

"If the government is yet to settle the post-election violence and Mau evictees, why should it think of displacing others?" he said. "We will sue to stop the government from forcibly displacing people from their land."

Eseli said the government should consider building the dam in the Lugari forest. Residents earmarked for displacement have threatened not to register as voters if the government goes ahead with plans to displace them.