The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has taken legal action to recover public land valued at Ksh 200 million in the heart of Eldoret’s Central Business District (CBD).
The disputed parcels, Eldoret Municipality Block 7/210 and Block 7/248, cover 3.44 acres and were originally reserved for government housing projects.
This case highlights the ongoing battle against corruption and illegal land grabs in Kenya, particularly in key urban areas like Eldoret. If successful, the recovery will protect vital public assets meant to benefit local residents and government operations.
How Was the Land Illegally Acquired?
According to the EACC, the land was fraudulently allocated to:
– Wilfred Kitur Kimalat – Former Permanent Secretary for Provincial Administration
– Endo Holdings Limited – A company linked to the late Ishmael Chelang’a, former Rift Valley Provincial Commissioner
The lawsuit also implicates Wilson Gacanja, the then Commissioner of Lands, for breach of duty in unlawfully approving the transfer.
Key findings from the investigation:
– The land still has two government houses (ELD/HOU/MG/42 & ELD/HOU/MG/43) managed by the State Department of Housing.
– The property was never available for private allocation since it was reserved for public use.
What Is the EACC Seeking in Court?
The anti-graft body has filed for:
Cancellation of all illegal land leases and subsequent transfers
Permanent injunction to stop further transactions on the land
Reversion of ownership to the State Department for Housing
The Eldoret Environment and Land Court has marked the case as urgent, with hearings set for 23 July 2025.
Why This Case Matters for Eldoret Residents
Public land in prime locations like Eldoret CBD is meant for housing, infrastructure, and community development. Illegal acquisitions:
– Deprive the government of resources for public projects
– Increase land disputes and legal battles
– Hinder urban planning efforts in growing towns like Eldoret
The EACC’s action sends a strong message that corruption in land deals will not go unchecked.
What’s Next?
As the case proceeds, Eldoret residents and stakeholders should follow developments closely. If the EACC succeeds, the recovered land could be used for affordable housing or government offices, benefiting the broader community.
Stay informed—corruption fights back, but so does justice.
Final Thoughts
The EACC’s move to reclaim public land in Eldoret is a crucial step in safeguarding national assets. With land being a hot-button issue in Kenya, this case could set a precedent for future anti-corruption efforts.
