Kenyan President William Ruto has issued a stern warning to wealthy landowners in Mombasa, stating that the government will not permit evictions of residents who have lived on disputed land for years. He emphasized that title deeds cannot be used to force them out, and the government will not be blackmailed into paying without proof of how much the claimants actually paid for the land. This move aims to protect long-time residents from being displaced.
President Ruto challenged title-deed holders to produce receipts showing the purchase price of their land, adding that officials will assess whether any compensation is warranted. He offered to meet landowners and discuss monetary settlements, but affirmed that residents on the disputed plots will not be removed. The government's stance is to ensure that citizens labelled as squatters are protected from evictions driven by owners' arrogance and contempt.
The President highlighted that many coastal residents lack secure ownership despite being Kenyan citizens, calling for equal treatment of all Kenyans. He stressed that the government cannot be forced to accept evictions merely because a title deed exists, rejecting any attempt to use legal ownership as a tool against occupants. This move is expected to bring relief to thousands of residents who have been living on disputed land.
To address the issue, the government has earmarked Sh10 billion in the budget for the coastal land-title programme and has directed officials to complete plot surveys to accelerate deed issuance. President Ruto announced that the title-deed drive began on Monday with a target of 300,000 deeds by Saturday, covering Kilifi, Taita-Taveta, Mombasa, Lamu and Tana River. This programme aims to provide secure ownership to residents.
President Ruto linked the squatter problem to broader regional discrimination, noting that underdevelopment also fuels grievances on the Coast. He announced a return visit to Mombasa within two months to issue additional title deeds and fully address the squatter issue. This move is expected to help resolve the long-standing problem and bring peace to the region.
The government's decision to provide title deeds to residents has been welcomed by many, who have been living in fear of eviction for years. The President's pledge to stand with citizens labelled as squatters has brought hope to those affected. The government's efforts to address the issue are seen as a step towards promoting social justice and equality.
The President's move has also been seen as a way to address the historical injustices faced by coastal residents. The government's efforts to provide secure ownership to residents are expected to have a positive impact on the region's development. The President's commitment to issuing title deeds and addressing the squatter issue is seen as a way to promote peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has earmarked Sh10 billion for the coastal land-title programme.
- President Ruto has pledged to issue 300,000 title deeds by Saturday.
- The government's move aims to protect long-time residents from being displaced.
