Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has recently ignited a substantial debate on the issue of property ownership on public land. During a public address, Salasya raised concerns about the legitimacy and long-term security of houses constructed on land allocated for public use.
"How do you own a house built on a public land?" Salasya asked, highlighting the potential legal and ethical issues surrounding such ownership. He expressed concern over the assurance property owners have regarding the long-term safety of their investments. "How sure are we that future governments won't reclaim back the land?" he questioned, hinting at the possibility of future administrations overturning current land allocations.
The Member of Parliament underscored the potentially precarious situation that property owners could face decades down the line. Salasya posed a rhetorical question, asking, "If you are told you own private property on public land 50 years from today, whom will you turn to?" He hinted that relying on current assurances might not guarantee long-term security for property owners.
Salasya also mentioned the current Kenyan President William Ruto and his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua in his speech, questioning where they would be when such potential issues might arise. "Where will be President William Ruto & Rigathi Gachagua?" he asked, indicating that current political leaders might not be accountable for future land disputes.
Concluding his speech, Salasya labeled the situation as a 'scam'. "HII NI SCAM WADAU," he stated, urging the public to be vigilant and cautious about property investments on public land. His speech has since stirred public discourse, with many calling for clearer policies and legal frameworks governing land ownership in Kenya.