Farmers' Leader Accuses Politicians of Land Grab in Eldoret

Mzee William Chesipligei, the 80-year-old chairman of the Leseru Tebeson Farmers Society, has ignited controversy by accusing senior politicians of attempting to steal their land for personal gain.

The society claims undisputed ownership of a vast 3,500-acre parcel located in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, which sits directly in the path of the planned Eldoret Eastern Bypass project.

Chesipligei’s accusations come after a meeting with Uasin Gishu County criminal investigation officers. He presented documents to the DCI officers that he says conclusively confirm the society’s ownership of the land and clarify that there is no dispute with the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF).

“These individuals, including local politicians, are making false accusations that I intend to monopolize funds from the bypass project,” Chesipligei asserted. “Such claims are entirely unfounded. We urge President Kenyatta and the government to safeguard the interests of Tebeson farmers. We will not relinquish even a single acre of our land.”

The Eldoret Eastern Bypass is a critical infrastructure project estimated to cost Ksh 2 billion. The bypass is intended to alleviate traffic congestion on the busy Eldoret-Uganda highway, a major trade route in the region.

Chesipligei’s concerns extend beyond the land dispute. He expressed fear for his safety, alleging that mysterious individuals have been trailing him and that he has received intimidating calls. While commending local security agencies for their assurances of protection, Chesipligei called on Defense Minister Aden Duale to retract and apologize for allegedly inciting public hostility towards him.

Chesipligei adamantly emphasized that the 503 members of the society acquired the land through lawful means. He demanded that Minister Duale uphold the law he swore to defend, and both Chesipligei and the society members went a step further by calling for Duale’s resignation. They vehemently denied claims that they offered Duale 100 acres of land, dismissing such allegations as misinformation.

A human rights activist who accompanied Chesipligei during his meeting with law enforcement officials echoed Chesipligei’s sentiments. The activist urged Duale to uphold the law and protect the rights of the farmers. This land dispute has the potential to significantly impact the Eldoret Eastern Bypass project, raising concerns about delays and disruptions. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the coming days will likely see further developments in this contentious situation.