Opinion: Why land invasions are illegal

There was the case in Westlands towards the end of last year where a family’s house and property were destroyed by unknown people over an expired land lease.PHOTO: COURTESY

The expiry of land leases in most parts of the country has had negative effects on society. Unscrupulous individuals aware of the expired leases are hoping to cash in on the expiry to acquire the land through illegal means.

There was the case in Westlands towards the end of last year where a family’s house and property were destroyed by unknown people over an expired land lease.

In Laikipia, it is claimed some politicians have been encouraging herders in search of pasture for their livestock to invade ranches and conservancies on the excuse the leases have expired. Such lawlessness cannot be tolerated, especially in an election year when there must be a lot of restraint.

In the stand-off in Laikipia, cases of fatal shootings and engagements have been reported. Law enforcers have not been spared as Laikipia West OCPD Mbelengo Mohare was shot by herders.

It is wrong for leaders who are supposed to be society’s role models to show scant respect for privately owned property. The expiry of land leases cannot be the excuse for invading privately owned property.

Leaders in the affected areas must bring herders, ranch owners and conservancy managements together in the interests of peace.