Armed police officers on Monday blocked Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku and several local leaders from accessing the controversial Kibiko prime land, an incident that later escalated after officers dispersed the group using teargas canisters.
The confrontation unfolded earlier today when Governor Ole Lenku, accompanied by Members of the County Assembly, local administrators, elders, and residents, arrived at the disputed land in Kibiko following mounting complaints over alleged land grabbing.
The land, considered prime due to its strategic location and high value, has for years been at the centre of ownership disputes involving claims of irregular allocation and fencing.
Eyewitnesses said the leaders intended to inspect the land and address residents who have been protesting what they believe is the illegal takeover of public or community land. However, upon arrival, the convoy was stopped by heavily armed police officers who had sealed off access roads leading to the property.
Police officers reportedly informed the governor and his team that they had strict instructions to prevent anyone from accessing the land, citing security concerns and the need to maintain order.
This explanation did not go down well with the leaders, who questioned why elected county officials were being denied entry into land within their own jurisdiction.
As the standoff continued, a growing crowd of local residents gathered at the scene, chanting and demanding answers over the true ownership of the Kibiko land.
Residents accused unknown individuals of grabbing land that they claimed belonged to the county government or the local community.
Tensions escalated when police moved in to disperse the gathering, firing teargas canisters to push the leaders and residents away from the area.
The teargas caused panic, forcing people to flee in different directions and bringing the gathering to an abrupt end. No serious injuries were immediately reported, although the incident disrupted normal activities in the area.
Governor Ole Lenku later condemned the police action, describing it as unnecessary and excessive. He stated that his administration remains committed to safeguarding public land and ensuring that any disputes are resolved through lawful and transparent processes.
The governor insisted that leaders have a constitutional duty and right to inspect land on behalf of the people.Other leaders present demanded to know who authorised the police deployment and why force was used against unarmed leaders and residents.
They called on the national government and security agencies to provide clarity on the status of the Kibiko land and to ensure accountability.
The Kibiko land dispute has continued to attract public attention, with residents calling for the release of official land records to establish ownership conclusively.
Stakeholders are urging dialogue and lawful intervention to prevent further confrontations and bring lasting resolution to the long-standing land row.
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