Residents of Lpartuk in West Samburu held peaceful demonstrations on Tuesday to protest against ongoing demolitions and planned evictions arising from a prolonged land dispute. The protests, which saw locals blocking the Baragoi road leading to Maralal town, highlighted the frustration and fear of residents over what they perceive as harassment and attempts to grab their ancestral land.
Naserian Lengidi, a local community member, voiced concerns over the involvement of certain police officers, whom she accused of colluding with unidentified individuals to displace residents. “We are being harassed, and our homes are being destroyed without any warning or explanation. We feel like strangers in our own land,” she lamented.
Destruction of Property
Residents reported that several homes had already been demolished, with property worth an undetermined value destroyed in the process. Many families have been left homeless, adding to the uncertainty and despair gripping the community.
“It’s heartbreaking to watch our homes and possessions being reduced to rubble,” said Frank Lengidi, another local. “We urge the Samburu County Government to step in immediately and protect us. This area has been neglected for too long, and now we’re being forced out without any alternative.”
Calls for Action and Documentation
The residents of Lpartuk have appealed for the issuance of official land ownership documents to bring an end to the dispute and ensure peace and stability in the area. They argue that formal documentation would provide a legal shield against forced evictions and land grabbing.
“All we want is security and recognition of our rights to this land,” said another protester. “Issuing us title deeds will bring an end to this chaos and restore peace.”
Local Authorities Respond
Merili Mose, the Samburu County Assistant Commissioner, held a brief meeting with the demonstrators and urged them to remain peaceful while the authorities address the issue. He emphasized the importance of respecting the law and assured the residents that the government is committed to resolving the dispute.
“We have launched investigations to identify those behind these demolitions,” Mose stated. “I urge all residents to remain calm and let the legal process take its course. The court is already handling the land dispute, and we believe justice will be served.”
Neglected Development
Apart from the land issue, locals highlighted the broader neglect of their area in terms of infrastructure and development. They cited poor roads, limited access to clean water, and a lack of essential services as pressing concerns that have compounded their woes.
“We feel abandoned by our leaders. While we struggle to protect our homes, we are also battling daily hardships due to underdevelopment,” Frank Lengidi added.
The Broader Context
Land disputes are a recurring issue in Samburu County, often exacerbated by the lack of clear ownership documentation and competing claims over communal and private lands. The current situation in Lpartuk underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to land management, including the resolution of historical injustices and the establishment of clear boundaries.
The protests in Lpartuk are a reminder of the tensions that can arise when communities feel their rights are being overlooked. As the legal process unfolds, residents hope for a resolution that prioritizes their welfare and safeguards their future.
A Call for Urgent Intervention
As the demonstrations continue, the residents of Lpartuk remain steadfast in their demands for justice and security. They are calling on both the Samburu County Government and national authorities to address the immediate threats to their homes and property while also investing in long-term solutions to prevent similar conflicts in the future.
With tensions high and the stakes even higher, all eyes are now on the government and the judiciary to provide a timely and fair resolution to the Lpartuk land dispute.
