Lawyer returns Malili Ranch funds to farmers

By David Ochami

A lawyer entrusted with millions of shillings owed to farmers who sold their land at Malili ranch has returned the money.

Mr Kamotho Waiganjo said he decided to return the funds to the farmers because the deal was fraught with many irregularities and queries he had raised were not addressed.

Said Waiganjo: "The deal has many unanswered queries. I decided no money would leave my office until all pending issues are addressed, but no answers are coming forth while farmers are crying for their dues."

He added: "I have decided to return the money whose amount I will not disclose without even charging my fees. I do not want to be associated with questionable deals."

Information PS Bitange Ndemo said the last tranche of Sh600 million was released to Erick Mutua & Company Advocates.

Corruption claims

Waiganjo explained his law firm was approached after a fall out between Malili Ranch and its lawyers.

"Malili Ranch instructed us to manage the payments to some members, but we did not make any payments. All the money entrusted to us was returned. I insisted that no money would be paid out unless interest of farmers are taken care of," he said.

The money paid in two instalments of Sh400 million and Sh600 million has split politicians, shareholders and businessmen amid claims of corruption.

Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka has demanded action against those who pocketed millions in commissions in the project and asked leaders not to politicise the deal.

Water Minister Charity Ngilu and Mutito MP Kiema Kilonzo said politicians sought to make profit at the expense of poor farmers.

"Farmers must be paid Sh200,000 as reflected in the original contract with the Government. I will fight for this even as some politicians shy away from this scandal because they are linked to it," Mrs Ngilu said.