The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The controversy surrounding a 2,500-acre parcel of land in Ruiru, Kiambu County, has taken a new turn following revelations by Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome.
Wahome disclosed that individuals had forged documents in an effort to unlawfully acquire a valuable piece of land. Addressing the issue for the first time after protests by Gikumari village residents and local leaders, the CS asserted that the land, commonly known as Ruiru East Block 4, rightfully belonged to the occupants. She dismissed claims that the government intended to displace residents for a housing project as untrue.
Wahome, a seasoned lawyer, urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate the matter and prosecute those involved in the scheme.
“I am informing those behind the attempt to seize the 2,550-acre parcel of land to abandon their efforts because the land rightfully belongs to the title deed holders. I witnessed a woman featured on news channels crying, stating that they were informed their titles are fake. Your ownership documents are authentic,” she informed journalists.
“I want to believe our officers here fell victim to fraudsters. I call on the DCI Ruiru to take swift action and apprehend those implicated. The security officers should be immediately withdrawn,” she added.
Ruiru Member of Parliament Simon King’ara, who accompanied the CS, praised her for addressing the concerns of Gikumari residents. These residents had experienced anxiety during the Christmas and New Year festivities, fearing eviction.
“I will not allow outsiders to disrupt the peace we have enjoyed in Ruiru. We will go to any office to defend our land. I also own a piece of land in that area,” he told the press.
The contested land, situated in the Gikumari area of Ruiru sub-county, spans the Eastern Bypass and Juja Farm. Locals claim to have inhabited the area for over 40 years, acquiring it from a colonial settler.
