Kajiado MCAs From Five Different Wards Join Forces To Protest New Tax

Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku is encountering significant backlash from local leaders and residents due to a contentious provision in the county’s Finance Act regarding land charges on freehold properties.

Residents are voicing strong opposition to this clause, which imposes fees on freehold land, and are urging the county leadership to withdraw the measure. They argue that the new charges are unfair and could impose a severe financial burden on landowners.

County Assembly members (MCAs) from five different wards have joined forces to protest the new tax, demanding that the county government reverse its decision. They emphasize that the tax was previously rejected by the assembly and call for greater community involvement in such decisions.

One MCA expressed concern over the financial impact, noting that charging Ksh 5,000 on half an acre could create hardships for landowners. “For someone with five acres, the costs could become unmanageable, potentially leading to the loss of their land,” the MCA warned.

The MCAs also criticized the enactment of this tax in the Finance Act, arguing that it contradicts earlier agreements. “We had collectively agreed there would be no charges on freehold land,” one MCA said. “It’s shocking to see this tax included in the Finance Act.”

The MCAs are standing firm in their opposition to the tax, pledging to represent their constituents’ interests. “We are here to reject this policy and advocate for the community that elected us. We urge the county government to act in the best interest of the people,” they stated.

The introduction of freehold land rates has raised concerns about the potential risk of land loss for many owners, especially those with larger parcels who may struggle to afford the new charges. Both residents and MCAs are calling on Governor Lenku’s administration to reconsider the policy and engage with the community before proceeding.

This controversy emerges at a time when land ownership and its implications are highly sensitive in Kajiado, where many residents depend on their land for agriculture and economic stability.