This new development has emerged during the investigation into the Shakahola massacre, where 336 lives were tragically lost. The Director-General, revealed to the Senate Ad Hoc Committee that the land in question, Shakahola Forest, is currently being offered for sale by an investor. This action is an attempt to recover a debt amounting to Ksh 75 million, contrary to initial reports that claimed the parcel of land belonged to the government.
Mr. Gathuma clarified that his office had not received any communication or notice from the government asserting ownership of the disputed land. He also refuted claims that controversial pastor Paul Mackenzie of the Good News International Church was among the owners of the land. Instead, it was disclosed that a private company owed the debt to two unidentified individuals and was under pressure to repay the amount.
The property in question is part of a larger 100,000-acre land owned by six Kenyan individuals. However, in 2016, a High Court order mandated the dissolution of the company, and an official receiver was appointed as the liquidator. The company was engaged in farming, animal produce, and livestock breeding. As per the liquidation order, all 100,000-acre parcels owned by the company in Malindi and Kilifi counties were placed under the receiver’s control.
In 2008, the government acquired 50,459 acres of land with the intention of resettling internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the 2007 post-election violence. The remaining portion of land is owned by another company currently undergoing liquidation. This company has two primary creditors, one being owed Ksh 15 million and the other Ksh 60 million.
Earlier, on June 6, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki announced the government’s plans to transform Shakahola Forest into a national memorial site in honor of the victims, with discussions to even set up a monument on site.
The revelation that the land is being offered for sale by an investor adds a new dimension to the investigation, highlighting financial aspects and the need for debt repayment. The government’s proposed plan to commemorate the tragic event by transforming the forest into a memorial site remains unaffected by these recent developments.
