The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has taken legal action in pursuit of recovering prime land in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), valued at 1.6 billion shillings, which it claims was unlawfully seized from the Kenya Railways Corporation. This move by the EACC underscores its commitment to combating corruption and reclaiming public assets.
EACC attacks Pastor Ng’ang’a
In a recent development, the Corporation has refuted allegations of demolishing a portion of Bishop Margret Wanjiru’s church premises. Instead, they assert that a wall was erected to safeguard a national security installation in the vicinity. This denial comes amidst a backdrop of controversy surrounding the disputed land.
The EACC has initiated legal proceedings by lodging a suit with the Environment and Lands Court. Their objective is to invalidate the titles held by private entities and individuals of high stature who are allegedly involved in the unlawful occupation of the land. Moreover, the Commission seeks compensation from the defendants to the tune of 1.6 billion shillings, reflecting the duration of the illegal land tenure spanning over 25 years.
Among the defendants implicated in the alleged encroachment on the land are Rubis Energy, a company associated with the family of the late Nicholas Biwot, and Maina Ng’ang’a’s Neno Evangelism Centre. These entities are accused of occupying the area at the intersection of Haile Selassie Avenue and Uhuru Highway, originally owned by the Kenya Railways Corporation.
Meanwhile, Bishop Wanjiru has voiced grievances, claiming that armed police officers purportedly demolished a wall separating her church compound from the Kenya Railways property. She has gone further to accuse President William Ruto of betrayal, citing her past support for him during the 2022 election campaign.
Finally, the legal battle over the contested land underscores broader issues of land ownership, corruption, and accountability in Kenya. As the EACC endeavours to restore public assets, the case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to uphold transparency and integrity in governance and land management practices.
