Former Keiyo South MP Daniel Ronoh has provided testimony in a high-stakes land dispute involving a property valued at Ksh. 20 million. The case, which has captivated the attention of many in Eldoret, revolves around allegations of fraudulent property transactions dating back fourteen years.
Background of the Case
The land in question is a prime residential plot located in Elgon View estate, an area known for its upscale developments. The dispute centers on a transaction brokered by Ronoh through his company, Maestro Properties Limited. The plot was intended for Godfrey Ofunya Omondi, a senior Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) employee, who sought to build a home on it.
In March 2010, Omondi approached Ronoh, seeking assistance in acquiring a plot in Eldoret. Ronoh, who has been actively brokering real estate deals, accepted the task, assured of his commission upon the successful completion of the transaction. According to Ronoh, he made arrangements with Julie Kandie, the owner of the disputed plot.
Testimony and Confessions
During his testimony before Presiding Lands Court Judge Elijah Obaga, Ronoh outlined the steps he took to facilitate the transaction. He described how he paid Kandie Ksh. 800,000 on behalf of Omondi to facilitate the transfer of ownership documents. This payment, Ronoh claimed, was made in two parts: Ksh. 400,000 in cash and the remaining Ksh. 400,000 through Kandie’s bank account.
However, Ronoh’s testimony took a surprising turn when he admitted to the court that he was unable to produce concrete evidence of the cash payment. This revelation added a layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about the validity of the transaction.
Kandie’s Denial and Allegations of Fraud
Julie Kandie has consistently denied selling the plot to Omondi, branding the entire process as fraudulent. Kandie’s strong repudiation of the sale casts a shadow over the legitimacy of the transaction. Her stance has been pivotal in shaping the ongoing legal battle, as she argues that the property was never sold and that the documents in question may have been manipulated or forged.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
The case has taken a significant turn with Judge Obaga’s recent directive for the Land Registrar of Uasin Gishu to provide clarity on the property’s ownership. This directive is set to be addressed in a court session scheduled for September 26, 2024. The Land Registrar’s input will be crucial in resolving the dispute, as it aims to shed light on the true ownership of the property and the legitimacy of the transaction.
Implications and Future Outlook
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for real estate transactions and brokerage practices in Kenya. If fraud is proven, it could impact not only the parties involved but also set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future. For Ronoh, the former MP, and Omondi, the senior KRA officer, the stakes are high, with their reputations and financial interests hanging in the balance.
As the legal battle continues, the court’s forthcoming decisions will be closely watched, with many hoping for a resolution that ensures fairness and transparency in real estate dealings. The case highlights the importance of proper documentation and due diligence in property transactions, serving as a reminder of the potential pitfalls in the real estate industry.
