Eldoret Court Orders Eviction of Hundreds From Disputed Land in Moiben,Uasin Gishu
Justice Wananda Anuro issued explicit orders demanding all “strangers” on the land to vacate
Edel Sum, alongside lawyer Momanyi Gichana (black suit), and human rights activist Kimutai Kirui (right), stand on the disputed 1,300-acre land invaded by strangers
A High Court in Eldoret has issued eviction orders to hundreds of individuals and institutions residing on a disputed 1,300-acre piece of land valued at Ksh 1.5 billion In Moiben Sub County Uasin Gishu.
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The land, belonging to the late “Mzee” Earnest Sum, was allegedly invaded by individuals and institutions, including the Eldoret Catholic Diocese, which reportedly settled over 35 families in the 1990s.
Residents Claim Resettlement by Church:
Angela Oloo, a 75-year-old resident, claims the Catholic Diocese resettled her in 1994. “We were resettled here by the diocese. I was among the over 30 homesteads identified by the church as needy and deserving of resettlement,” she stated.
Similar sentiments were echoed by 85-year-old Christopher Sila, who believes the church purchased the land they have called home for years.
Late Owner’s Family Contests Claims:
However, the lawyer representing the late Sum’s family, Momanyi Gichana, argues that neither the Catholic Church nor any other individuals who “invaded” the land could prove ownership before the court. He emphasized the need for them to relocate immediately.
Court Orders Eviction:
Justice Wananda Anuro issued explicit orders demanding all “strangers” on the land to vacate immediately. Lawyer Momanyi confirmed issuing the orders to relevant government officials for enforcement.
Daughter of Late Owner Describes Hardships:
Edel Sum, one of the late owner’s daughters, expressed the family’s pain since their father’s passing 39 years ago. She described how the “invaders” have cut down trees on their farm, destroyed fences, and grazed livestock illegally, creating difficulties in cultivating crops.
Human Rights Activist Raises Concerns:
Kimutai Kirui, an Eldoret-based human rights activist, highlighted the ongoing issue of disinheritance, particularly of widows, in Uasin Gishu County. He claims local government administrators perpetuate this culture by denying women their rightful ownership of property and land.
Uncertain Future for School and Parish:
Justice Wananda’s order includes the eviction of a church and a day and boarding primary school, St. Vincent DePaul, raising concerns about the fate of over 200 students and the potential demolition of the school and Karnanin Parish.
Sole Administrator Left Behind:
The court case sheds light on the complex land ownership challenges in the region. It is important to note that the late Mr. Sum had appointed his widow, Veronicah Sum, as the sole administrator of his estate upon his passing 39 years ago.
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