MPs pledge action on Egerton University’s 2,000-acre land dispute
The university says more than 2,000 acres of its farm land have been seized by private individuals who have even obtained documents claiming ownership, frustrating attempts to recover the property.
Egerton University has called on Parliament to step in and resolve a long-standing land dispute that has stalled its growth and revenue generation plans.
The university says more than 2,000 acres of its farm land have been seized by private individuals who have even obtained documents claiming ownership, frustrating attempts to recover the property.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaack Kibwage made the appeal on Wednesday when the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, chaired by Wanami Wamboka, met the university management in Nakuru to discuss audit queries raised by the Auditor General.
He explained that the disputed land was meant to support the institution’s farming activities, which would have provided income to supplement government funding, but attempts to reclaim it have often met resistance and violence.
“This land ownership matter is very big and sensitive, but the land belongs to the University and as MPs, we shall do everything possible to enable its restoration back to the institution,” Wamboka said.
The chair noted that the committee would push for a joint effort with the Lands and Security committees to pursue a resolution.
“These land ownership wrangles have frustrated the Management over years to the point that they cannot undertake any income generating activities on the parcel. We shall recommend the coming together of three Committees - Lands, Security, and PIC on Governance & Education - to apply concerted efforts to resolve the matter, to visit the land and find a lasting solution,” he said.
The MPs also raised concerns over stalled projects worth Sh435.5 million after contractors withdrew due to non-payment. Procurement irregularities and the diversion of Sh600 million from development funds to salaries were also flagged.
Legislators termed the diversion of funds by the Finance Officer as unlawful.
“The finance officer’s decision is equal to usurping powers of the National Assembly by diverting funds to any other use other than its intended purpose, and without any approval,” said Kakai Bisau.
The committee resolved to recommend that anti-corruption agencies take up the case and that legal action be initiated against the officer responsible.
