Rasanga puts land grabbers on notice

Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga ( seating at the center) with members of the county's Land Management board after the swearing in on Monday 15/12/14. PHOTO BY TITUS MUNALA/STANDARD

Governor Cornel Rasanga wants the new County Land Management Board officials to move with speed and help resolve the historical land injustices in the county.

The governor appealed to the board to borrow an advisory leaf from the District Land Board on how to handle land matters, and asked the officials not to politicise the board operations.

Speaking at a function in Siaya town on Monday where six officials of the board were sworn into office, Mr Rasanga told the new officers to be guided by the law to ensure they settle the numerous land scandals in the county.

"There is need for consultation, and we promise not to interfere with you for as long as you work professionally, diligently and according to the Constitution," he said.

Rasanga said issues relating to land in the county should be well articulated and understood since several people own fake title deeds, albeit, unknowingly.

"There is lack of development in the county because, I cannot expand anything. I was supposed to expand the county referral hospital but because of inadequate space, it is impossible," he said adding, "It is wrong to give someone land and before they develop it, you want to buy it back and at the same time you want to sell it at the market rates."

The county boss pointed out at Ugunja, Siaya,  Bondo and Yala as the most affected areas.

Members of the board sworn in were Olga Ochola, Calisto Owino, David Ochieng', Nari Onaya, George Omolo and Peter Ligulu. The swearing ceremony was conducted by Siaya Resident Magistrate Mburu Kimani.