Government Warns Those Invading Del Monte And Kakuzi Lands

The Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Interior, has warned politicians against inciting locals to invade privately-owned land in various parts of the country, saying it is against the law and a frustration to investors.

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, particularly, warned those politicians inciting residents to invade both Kakuzi and Del Monte lands, saying the government will not sit and watch the law being broken.

Murkomen called for alternative conflict resolution methods that will see both private landowners and the local communities co-exist peacefully and develop the nation, rather than resorting to methods that could scare away investors.

“We must all look for alternative ways to resolve our conflicts. It cannot always be about violence and breaking the law. It is against the law to invade someone’s land, and we will not entertain that,” said the CS.

The sentiments by the CS come amid growing concerns of people taking advantage of private expansive lands, invading them, destroying property, and dividing them among themselves, without following the law.

For years, Del Monte Kenya has endured losses as some locals invade their lands and make away with tons of pineapple produce, as well as other products. Some local leaders have been quoted in the past pronouncing themselves concerning the privately-owned Del Monte land.

On the other hand, Kakuzi was forced to move to the Environment and Land Court in Murang’a, seeking orders to bar a group of squatters from occupying part of its land.

In an application filed on July 28, the company is asking the court to direct the squatters, their agents or representatives, to vacate parcel LR 11674—one of two pieces of land at the centre of an ongoing case, pending the determination of the matter.

The application, filed through Kaplan & Stratton Advocates, lists 24 individuals, surveyor Clement Kariuki, and the Inspector General of Police as defendants.