The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has launched a crackdown on illegal occupation of public land, with a specific focus on government-owned parcels used by police and prison services.
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Speaking during the launch of the Jukwaa La Usalama security engagement forum in Kitui County as part of his Lower Eastern Region tour, Murkomen expressed concern over the increasing cases of land grabbing targeting state properties. He directed that all public land be properly titled and that any squatters occupying it be evicted without delay.
“Land issues are deeply sensitive and have become a major source of insecurity. Illegally acquired public land must be reclaimed and officially documented,” the CS emphasized.
Murkomen pledged close cooperation with the Ministry of Lands to ensure a comprehensive survey and documentation of all government land holdings. He urged administrative units to prioritize safeguarding public land and maintaining accurate land records.
He also noted that disputes over land extend beyond public property, affecting communal and private holdings, particularly group ranches in coastal and Lower Eastern regions. Kitui County, he added, has seen a surge in conflicts linked to land, often resulting in clashes between farmers and herders.
The Cabinet Secretary further highlighted boundary disputes as another source of tension, noting that they have strained relations between neighboring counties and constituencies. He called for a national dialogue in Parliament to resolve such issues, citing a boundary conflict between Kitui and Tana River counties.
Addressing concerns over human-wildlife conflicts, Murkomen warned of the growing encroachment on protected areas such as the Mwingi Game Reserve. He committed to bolstering security around critical conservation zones through enhanced collaboration with county governments, deployment of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers, and county rangers to curb illegal activities, including armed conflict and competition over grazing resources.
He revealed that Kitui currently has 240 National Police Reservists (NPRs) who have been instrumental in reducing crime rates. Murkomen concluded by advocating for continuous public engagement to gather feedback and formulate solutions for long-standing challenges, stressing the importance of regular assessments in improving service delivery and security.
