Koitalel’s clan decries delays in compensation

Kalenjin leaders led by Governors Stephen Sang (third left) and Jackson Mandago (centre), during celebrations to mark 100 years since Talai community were moved from their ancestral land by the colonialists in Kapsisywo, Nandi, on Friday. [Peter Ochieng, Standard]

Freedom hero and Nandi Orgoiyot Koitalel arap Samoei’s Talai clan held prayers and thanksgiving to mark 100 years since they were relocated from their native land by British imperialists in 1919.

The Talai clan who were joined by members of the Dedan Kimathi Foundation in the Friday afternoon fete at Chepkober Primary School, Kapsisiywa in Nandi, recounted years of suffering and marginalisation with no compensation for atrocities meted on them.

The freedom veterans claimed successive regimes had not succeeded in pressing for compensation for the loss of lives and property during years of resistance to colonial rule.

Clansmen James Bassy, Moses Saina, David Sulo, Christopher Koyogi, Christopher Agui, Kipchoge arap Chomu, Amos Korir and Judy Koskei among others said the Talai clan has been marginalised for years after the colonial government moved them following the 1909 Native Removal Ordinance.

“After Koitaleel arap Samoei’s killing in 1905, Nandi resistance was still felt and the British passed several laws, which aimed at containing the influence of his Talai clan in Nandi and other places among the Kalenjin people. 

Leaders present were Governors Jackson Mandago (Uasin Gishu), Stephen Sang (Nandi), Chesumei MP Wilson Kogo, former MPs Elijah Lagat, Jese Maiz and John Cheruiyot, Gen (Rtd) Augustine Cheruiyot, Nandi Kaburwo council of elders chair Benjamin Kitur and Talai community members from across the country.