Thika: The long-running Kilimambogo land dispute involving more than 2,000 squatters is expected to be resolved within two months after the Thika Environment and Land Court concluded hearing proceedings, signaling a possible end to one of the region’s most divisive land rows. Presiding Judge Lady Justice Anne Mogeni announced that judgment will be delivered after a site visit scheduled for November 13, 2025, whose findings will form part of the final ruling.
According to Kenya News Agency, Justice Mogeni emphasized the prolonged nature of the case, stating, “This case has taken too long. Nine years is a long wait for justice. We know there is anxiety, but I urge all parties to remain calm and maintain peace as we await the final decision.” She clarified that the site visit would not alter the outcome, as the case primarily seeks to determine rightful ownership of land allocated to squatters in 2017.
The dispute is characterized by squatters who are dissatisfied with the 2017 allocation, carried out under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, against others who maintain that the process was fair and legally executed. During the hearings, testimonies from former Thika East Deputy County Commissioner Thomas Sankei, government officials, surveyors, and several squatters supported the fairness and legality of the land adjudication process.
However, petitioners led by Paul Kimenyi and others contended that genuine squatters were excluded from the allocations, while non-residents received large parcels of land. They urged the court to nullify the subdivision and initiate a fresh process, citing security and settlement challenges arising from disputed allocations.
The court was also informed that some individuals advocating for new allocations had previously benefited from the initial exercise but later sold their plots and refused to vacate, contributing to renewed tensions and confusion in the area. The disputed land remains largely undeveloped, with residents lamenting the lack of infrastructure and basic services due to the prolonged stalemate.
As the community awaits the court’s final decision, many hope the ruling will bring lasting peace, legal clarity, and development to the Kilimambogo area.
