Ruto calls for public participation in Lands Bill

Deputy President William Ruto has asked Members of Parliament to include the views of local communities in the Lands Bill.

Speaking when he presided over the opening of Maungu roadside lorry park in Taita Taveta County on Monday, the deputy president called on county governments, MPs and the Ministry of Lands to work on protecting the rights of communities and to be sensitive in addressing land issues.

“There should be teamwork, coordination and collaboration among all stakeholders before the Community Lands Bill is passed,” said Mr Ruto.

“I want to assure governors and county leaders that the bill will address the sensitive issues before it is passed,” said Mr Ruto.

The park was constructed by the national government at a cost of Sh319million.

The Bill had raised protestation from governors and Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) had complained about the bill that it had failed to include the views of the local communities.

Ruto also called for consultation regarding the Community Act, which is still a Bill in Parliament so as to address the concerns of all communities before its implementation.

“As we move to debate this Bill with a view to passing into law to achieve the constitution’s mandate, we should ensure it satisfies all Kenyans,” said the deputy president.

According to the Bill, land belonging to communities will be registered under a collective name and representatives will be in charge.

The event was also attended by Governor John Mruttu (Taita Taveta), Acting Lands Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi, MPs Naomi Shaban (Taveta), John Mlolwa (Voi), Joyce Lay (Women Rep) and Andrew Mwadime (Mwatate).