Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) has warned politicians in Machakos County against politicizing the ongoing land ownership regularization in Mavoko, emphasizing its fairness and transparency. Mavoko MP Patrick Makau has accused some local leaders of exploiting the process for personal gain, which has driven plot prices up to Sh2.5 million.
On Monday, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau criticized local politicians for hijacking the land regularization process, claiming they inflated prices to Sh2.5 million per plot for personal financial benefit, harming poor landowners. “The land ownership regularization exercise was hijacked and plot prices rose to Sh2.5 million per plot to benefit local politicians. We cannot allow such self-serving politicians to continue holding public office,” Makau stated. He added that many owners cannot afford the hikes and risk eviction after years of residence. “Many of them are at risk of eviction after living on this land for many years. Where is justice and humanity?” he questioned. On Tuesday, KCB, through Project Manager Antony Njuguna, refuted the claims, condemning politicians for spreading misinformation and inciting plot owners, leading to unnecessary confusion. Njuguna clarified that no plots are reserved for politicians, prices are uniform for all buyers, and payment terms are flexible. “As KCB agents, we started this process last year and the first group of owners will receive their title deeds at the appropriate time. Owners should not be misled by politicians. This process is legitimate,” he emphasized. The land, previously owned by EAPC and transferred to KCB between 2021 and 2022 as part of settling a Sh6.8 billion debt, spans 1,167 acres in Athi River. Last year, KCB initiated regularization, prioritizing those who had built and paid before the public sale. Currently, about 80% of the land is developed with luxury homes, churches, schools, and high-end restaurants.