Kitale Prison Land Dispute: Government Appeals for Patience

KITALE, Kenya — National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the residents of Trans Nzoia to remain patient as the government addresses the contentious issue of the Kitale Prison land dispute. During a consultative meeting at the Kitale Club, Wetang’ula assured representatives of the families facing potential eviction that the government intends to resolve the dispute lawfully and fairly.

According to Kenya News Agency, the government is committed to ensuring a civil and sober process in handling the matter, recognizing that some residents possess valid legal documentation for their land. He acknowledged the complexity of the situation, with some individuals having acquired their land through unlawful means, and promised that each case would be treated distinctly and without bias. The Speaker’s comments come in the wake of government efforts to reclaim over 3,000 acres of land allegedly appropriated by various individuals, including some notable tycoons. Recent actions have seen the erection of beacons to demarcate the contested land, a move that has incited concern among the local population. Wetang’ula, flanked by Endebess Legislator Robert Pukose and former Minister Noah Wekesa, emphasized the government’s dedication to resolving the dispute and ensuring the rights of all parties are upheld, highlighting the land’s earmarked role in the Affordable Housing Project.