By Betty Luke
A section of Mwangaza leaders and residents have demanded the inclusion of all residents affected by land disputes during the formation of a Taskforce to investigate land issues in the area.
Addressing journalists in Isiolo town, the group said failure to include representatives from all the communities living in the area would create more divisions among the residents.
Wabera MCA aspirant George Karithi said the Taskforce would ensure a lasting solution to the disputes that have left several families homeless but warned the county government against including politicians in the team.
“Ensure there are church leaders, professionals and representatives from every community that lives in Isiolo. Do not include politicians because they will be after popularizing themselves,” said Mr Karithi.
Mr Karithi told off those politicizing land issues saying it was unfortunate that such was happening while several innocent residents continue to suffer.
His sentiments were echoed by Mr Julius Mwongela who maintained that the Taskforce should have people who are well versed with the area issues to avoid unfairness.
“I have a land case in court that has lasted for five years and I well understand the suffering the residents are going through,” said Mr Mwongela.
Mr Moses Kithinji, a community leader, complained that the disputes had affected peaceful coexistence between different communities living in the area and appealed to the county government to fast-track the process of constituting a task force.
Mr Kithinji said issuance of title deeds would greatly improve residents’ livelihoods.
“With title deeds, residents can acquire loans to start or even boost their businesses as well as sort out other issues,” he said.
The appeal comes a day after Isiolo Governor Mohammed Kuti said his administration will offer alternative land to residents with allotment letters and help those who have permanently constructed their homes acquire title deeds.
The county boss appealed to residents who claimed ownership of land that had been settled on by others to accept to be resettled elsewhere within the municipality to ensure a lasting solution to the protracted conflicts.
“Those with letters will be shown where to settle and those who have already settled on disputed land will be assisted to have title deeds to avoid further conflicts,” he said during an interview with a local radio station.
The Governor however appealed to the residents whose cases are still in court to withdraw them as the alternative solution would not be achieved while there are active cases in court.
“We cannot provide any solution if the cases are still in court because we respect the law,” Dr Kuti said.
