Safina party leader Jimi wanjigi adrressing people previously in a meeting
By Cynthia Masibo and Aoma Keziah,
In the tranquil environs of Ndabibi farm in Naivasha, a storm brewed today as politician Jimi Wanjigi and a cohort of local residents clashed with government authorities in a high-stakes confrontation over alleged land grabbing. What was supposed to be a peaceful thanksgiving prayer event turned into a chaotic standoff, underscoring the simmering tensions surrounding land ownership and political accountability in Kenya.
The saga began when Wanjigi, flanked by fellow leaders and supporters, arrived at the Ndabibi farm to partake in a ceremony meant to celebrate communal unity and gratitude. However, their plans were thwarted by a heavy police presence, which swiftly dispersed the gathering, leaving residents bewildered and incensed.
At the heart of the controversy lies Wanjigi’s steadfast commitment to addressing the pervasive issue of land grabbing that has plagued countless Kenyan families. With a resolute determination, Wanjigi has pledged to champion the cause of justice, offering legal assistance to those embroiled in disputes over land ownership. His sights are firmly set on cases involving prominent political figures, notably William Ruto, whom he accuses of perpetuating the cycle of exploitation and disenfranchisement.
“We have received many cases and helped many get out of remand,” Wanjigi affirmed, highlighting the breadth of his advocacy efforts and the tangible impact they have had on vulnerable communities.
Central to Wanjigi’s crusade is the assertion that Ruto, whom he labels as an oppressor and colonizer, has leveraged his political influence to acquire land through dubious means. Wanjigi contends that the purported sale of land by Benjamin Kipkulei, the individual from whom Ruto claims ownership, lacks legal legitimacy, casting doubt on the veracity of Ruto’s claims and the integrity of the transaction.
“It is a betrayal of the oath he took to protect the people,” Wanjigi lamented, decrying what he perceives as a gross betrayal of public trust by a figure entrusted with upholding the rule of law.
Moreover, Wanjigi sounded the alarm on what he deems as government overreach, citing the deployment of GSU officers to the Ndabibi farm as a brazen violation of court orders and an act of intimidation against rightful landowners. He cautioned against the erosion of constitutional safeguards and urged authorities to uphold the sanctity of legal processes.
The Safina Party member, who was speaking in Naivasha, said he recently secured the release of locals who were arrested and charged for allegedly invading the land.
In addition, Wanjigi said he would transverse the country and flag an increase in land-grabbing cases in Naivasha, Kilgoris, Marsabit, Kajiado, Taita Taveta counties.
On her part, MCA Jane Gituku decried the continued oppression of locals whom she said have the right to claim ownership of the land.
She lauded efforts to ensure the land is returned back to the community.
According to former CAS Zack Kinuthia, the government’s deployment of over 500 police officers to guard the land is unconstitutional as it was illegally allocated to the President.
Kinuthia said he will not relent in fighting for the democratic rights of residents who have been subjected to detention without trial.
On his part, lawyer Ndegwa Njiru said he will fight for the accused in court until they get their freedom adding that the locals have faced oppression over their battle to win the land back.
The clash at Ndabibi farm serves as a microcosm of the broader struggle for land rights and political integrity in Kenya. It underscores the enduring legacy of historical injustices and the entrenched power dynamics that continue to shape the landscape of governance and resource allocation in the country.
As tensions escalate and battle lines are drawn, the fate of Ndabibi farm hangs in the balance, emblematic of the larger quest for justice and accountability. While Wanjigi and his allies remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth and restitution, the specter of political reprisal looms large, casting a shadow over the aspirations of ordinary Kenyans striving for a better future. Only time will tell whether justice will prevail in the face of entrenched interests and systemic inequities.
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