Government appoints new land boards for 16 counties

Land cabinet secretary Prof Jacob Kaimenyi in a meeting with senior officials. PHOTO:BONIFACE GIKANDI

The Government has appointed land control boards in 16 counties, two months after they were disbanded.

The State disbanded the boards in April on claims of laxity, irregularities and high level corruption among other accusations.

The new members were appointed by Lands Cabinet Secretary Jacob Kaimenyi for a period of three years.

Prof Kaimenyi in a communication dated July 8, 2016 said more members will be appointed to serve in the 230 land control boards in 31 counties, once they comply with rules and procedures that include adherence to Chapter Six of the Constitution.

BOARDS OPERATIONAL

The county commissioners in the counties where members have been appointed have been instructed to ensure the boards are operational.

However, critics have alleged that the boards will not be free and fair, since the members were identified by deputy county commissioners and land officers.

In the latest publication of the Kenya Gazette Notice, the newly appointed members will serve in Meru, Samburu, Embu, Kericho, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Kisumu, Machakos, Elgeyo Markwet, Narok, Kwale, West Pokot, Taita Taveta, Murang’a, Kilifi and Vihiga counties.