Members of Parliament in the National Assembly have expressed concern over the persistent lack of progress in addressing both present-day and historical land injustices, years after the enactment of the new Constitution in 2010.

These concerns are compounded with allegations that the National Land Commission (NLC) has not only failed in its duty to the Kenyan populace but has also seemingly allied itself with perceived oppressors, including multinational corporations, in the dispossession of Kenyans from their ancestral lands.

The legislator's concerns stem from grievances surrounding the arbitrary renewal and transfer of leases on lands currently occupied by multinational corporations.

Furthermore, there is contention that indigenous communities are being stripped of their rightfully owned ancestral land through opaque lease transactions.

In addition, there is a notable oversight by the NLC regarding the expectation that land leased to these corporations would automatically revert to their original owners after the 99-year lease period.

Several Members highlighted the failure to address these issues not only perpetuates historical injustices but also undermines the fundamental principles of the constitutional provisions aimed at rectifying past wrongs and ensuring equitable land access for all Kenyans.

“It would seem that the land commission is toothless. It appears incapable of addressing land injustice issues in Kenya. This predicament is widespread across the nation,” said Prof. Phyllis Bartoo (Moiben).

Hon. Farah Maalim (Daadab) called for the Government’s intervention in addressing these injustices, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive land policy that acknowledges the historical and ongoing injustices of African land expropriation.

“We must develop a land policy that confronts the historical and ongoing injustices of African land expropriation,” said Hon. Maalim.

Hon. Cynthia Muge (Nandi) expressed regret over the secretive renewal or transfer of expired leases in Nandi County to pseudo companies posing as trustees of the people. She condemned these actions as fraudulent and serving only the interests of the perpetrators.

The Members were commenting on a petition by Hon. Bernard Kitur (Nandi Hills) on behalf of the Kapkakaron Community regarding the illegal acquisition of parcels of land registered as Kapkakaron farm LR. No. 5423/2 and LR. No. 6053 in Nandi Hills Sub-County, Nandi County.