Nandi community to seek compensation from British government

The Nandi Community now wants the British Government to compensate them over alleged torture during the colonial era.

Nandi Governor Cleophas Lagat said they are ready to sue the British Government adding that they will engage lawyers of international repute to push for compensation.

“Let me say it without any contradiction that I am going to sue Britain on behalf of the people of Nandi County for the historical injustices,” said Governor Lagat.

However, Lagat pointed out that the move will not scare away investors but will ensure justice for the people of Nandi.

Lagat said the community lost many leaders and property at the time and must be adequately compensated.

According to Lagat, the community has already begun collecting evidence that will be used in the case.

Earlier on, the Talai community (Koitalel Arap Samoei lineage), led by their chairman Rev. James Baassy and clan elder Christopher Koyog, handed over the petition to Senate demanding Ksh 15 trillion compensation by the British Government for torture and suffering  against their people during colonial rule in Kenya.

Talai clan elders regretted that though the Nandi community resisted the British rule for the longest time, most families from those affected during the rule remained in poverty with many being rendered homeless.

According to Nandi Senator Stephen Sang, the community was forcefully scattered in many parts of this country with the majority being taken as far as Mfangano Island, Suba and Gwassi areas, and others in Meru.

However, the Legislator said that the constitution, which appreciates the fact that the existence of historical injustices in this country, is the same constitution that recognizes the existence of marginalized communities.

“The Talai had a constitutional right to demand compensation since the colonial rulers identified the clan for its leadership roles in Nandi and in an attempt to solidify their rule over the Nandi community, the colonialists decided to descend on this clan to solidify their rule,” Sang said.