Former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta and former Taita-Taveta Member of Parliament Basil Criticos have secured court orders compelling the Ministry of Lands to release the title deed for their 2,634 acres in Taita-Taveta County. According to a report by Daily Nation, President William Ruto, who purchased 2,536 acres from Mr. Criticos in 2017, has already obtained his title deed and used the land as collateral for a Ksh 200 million bank loan.
The development has brought attention to land ownership and management issues in the region, raising questions about delays in the issuance of title deeds to other landowners. Legal experts indicate that court interventions in land disputes highlight ongoing administrative challenges within the Ministry of Lands, especially regarding high-value and politically significant parcels.
Meanwhile, President Ruto criticized the United Opposition for focusing on attacks against the government rather than presenting development agendas to Kenyans. Speaking on the current political landscape, the President singled out Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, questioning the veteran politician’s ability to drive national transformation. Ruto noted that even the roads leading to Kalonzo’s home remain dusty years after the latter served as Vice President, using this as an example of limited local development.
President Ruto reiterated that his administration remains committed to fighting corruption and steering Kenya toward first-world status, emphasizing accountability and infrastructural development as core pillars of his government.
In response, Kalonzo Musyoka dismissed the President’s remarks, accusing him of making populist statements aimed at winning favor ahead of the upcoming General Elections. Kalonzo argued that his political experience and service record speak for themselves and urged Kenyans to judge leaders based on tangible achievements rather than campaign rhetoric.
The exchange between the two leaders reflects the intensifying political contest as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Elections, with debates increasingly centering on land management, corruption, and infrastructural development.
By Meta