Government in Talks to Resolve Narok Land Dispute Involving Ex-PC Cheluget’s Family and Settlers
The Ministry of Lands has confirmed that structured negotiations are underway to resolve a long-running land dispute in Narok between the family of former Nyanza Provincial Commissioner Isaiah Cheluget and hundreds of people currently occupying the land.
Lands Principal Secretary Nixon Korir dismissed recent reports accusing President William Ruto of misleading the public on the matter, terming the claims sensational and inaccurate. Korir clarified that the government has been holding formal engagements with the Cheluget family regarding the possible compulsory acquisition of the land.
We are aware that Mr. Cheluget passed on, and that is public knowledge, Korir said. We have held several meetings with his family, led by former PS Nancy Kirui Cheluget and her siblings, and they fully understand the government’s position. Some narratives circulating out there are simply meant to portray negativity.
President Ruto had addressed residents of Sogoo, Narok, on Wednesday, assuring them that the government would move to purchase the contested parcel so that the occupants — who have lived there for more than 15 years — can permanently remain on the land.
We have had discussions with the Cheluget family, and we have agreed as government that we will buy that land and allocate it to the people settled there so they can continue living there, the President said during his visit.
He instructed the newly posted Amalo Deputy County Commissioner to fast-track coordination with relevant agencies to conclude the discussions swiftly.
Background of the Dispute
The 5,800-acre parcel has been at the center of conflict since around 1999 and 2000, when approximately 600 people reportedly entered the land without approval, subdivided it and began constructing homes.
The matter has since been the subject of numerous legal battles, both at the High Court and Court of Appeal, with all rulings favoring the Cheluget family. The late PC Cheluget, who died on June 26, 2017, is said to have been allocated the land in 1997.
Government Committed to Peaceful Resolution
PS Korir said the State remains committed to addressing historical land injustices in Narok and ensuring that both property rights and humanitarian concerns are taken into account.
He noted that President Ruto’s remarks were meant to assure affected families that the government is pursuing a peaceful, lasting solution that respects all parties involved.