Former MP clashes with lawyer in Sh30m Eldoret land case

A property dispute involving former Member of Parliament Joseph Lagat turned tense at the Eldoret Environment and Land Court after he repeatedly declined to answer questions during cross-examination.

The former MP was appearing before the court in a case involving a property valued at about Sh30 million. The proceedings became heated as the lawyer handling the cross-examination pressed Lagat for answers to questions relating to the disputed property.

According to a report by The Standard, Lagat appeared uncomfortable with the line of questioning and refused to respond to some of the questions put to him.

The exchanges created drama in the courtroom as the lawyer continued seeking clarification from the former legislator. The confrontation centred on details relevant to the ownership and circumstances surrounding the property at the heart of the dispute.

The case is being heard at the Eldoret Environment and Land Court, which handles disputes involving land ownership, occupation and property rights.

Lagat’s appearance before the court comes as the parties continue presenting evidence in the long-running property dispute. His testimony is expected to form part of the evidence the court will consider before determining the case.

The court proceedings also highlighted the challenges that can arise during cross-examination, particularly when witnesses are required to respond to detailed questions concerning contested property transactions.

The Sh30 million value attached to the property has placed the dispute among the notable land cases currently before the Eldoret court.

The court will ultimately determine the competing claims after considering the evidence and submissions from the parties involved. Until then, the dispute remains before the court and no final determination has been made on ownership of the property.

The Standard’s report, published on October 7, 2026, identified Lagat as a former MP and said he was apparently upset by the number of questions directed at him during the cross-examination.