Kenya's Land Issues: Drama, Corruption, and the Politics of Reclamation

 Keen observers of Kenyan politics have undoubtedly noticed the persistent controversies surrounding land issues since President William Ruto assumed office. Land has always been an emotive and corruption-laden subject in Kenya, and recent developments only highlight its contentious nature.

The latest incident involves Bishop Margaret Wanjiru, a prominent member of the UDA party, whose church, Jesus is Alive Ministries, was raided. Part of the church was demolished, and personal property, including phones, was reportedly seized. The root cause? A dispute over land. This comes on the heels of President Ruto's directive to the Ministry of Lands to reclaim illegally acquired land, sparking heated debates and raising questions about selective justice.

Margaret Wanjiru's history with this property, located along Haile Selassie Avenue in Nairobi, is well-documented. She acquired it amidst stiff competition in the past, and its ownership has remained a point of contention. Despite her close ties to the UDA and her significant role in popularizing Ruto's presidency, the demolition suggests that political affiliations may not shield individuals from the government's ongoing land reclamation efforts.

This isn't an isolated case. Kenya has witnessed a series of dramatic land disputes under this administration. For instance, goons invaded the Kenyatta family's Northlands farm in March 2023, looting valuable livestock, while law enforcement appeared powerless. Similarly, Nakuru Memorial Hospital has faced repeated invasions despite court orders. More recently, the Cabinet Secretary for Lands faced hostility while executing a court order in a land dispute in Loresho, where she was temporarily locked inside the property.

Such events point to powerful forces operating above the law, casting a shadow on the administration's approach to land justice. While the intent to reclaim illegally acquired land is commendable, the execution often appears chaotic and politically charged. Critics argue that starting with high-profile cases, such as the Western Hotel, would lend credibility to the initiative.

The broader implications are equally concerning. Uncertainty surrounding land rights creates an atmosphere of fear among investors, potentially triggering capital flight and stalling economic growth. Amidst this chaos, the Kenyan Shilling continues to struggle, contrary to government assurances of an impending recovery.

As the drama unfolds, one thing remains clear: Kenya's land issues are a complex mix of corruption, politics, and public interest. Addressing them requires transparency, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law, lest the cycle of disputes and economic instability persists.