Kiambu Governor Wamatangi Denies Tatu Town’s Land Use Claims Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has refuted allegations made by Tatu City against the county government in a 130-acre land use dispute. Tatu Town had accused the county of unilaterally changing the land use of the disputed property from residential to industrial, despite a prior agreement. In a statement, Governor Wamatangi dismissed the accusations as “baseless and without merit.” He stated that the county government had acted within its legal mandate and followed due process in making the land use decision. “The county government, through the County Assembly, has the authority to plan and manage land use within its jurisdiction,” said Wamatangi. “We have exercised this authority in a manner that is consistent with the law and the best interests of our residents.” The Governor explained that the county’s decision to change the land use was based on comprehensive studies and consultations with the relevant stakeholders, including the National Land Commission and the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA). “The studies found that the proposed industrial development would create significant economic benefits for Kiambu County and its residents,” said Wamatangi. “It would generate jobs, boost the local economy, and improve infrastructure.” He added that the county government had already allocated alternative residential land to Tatu Town, which the company had accepted. “Despite these facts, Tatu Town has chosen to engage in a public relations campaign to mislead the public and tarnish the reputation of the county government,” said Wamatangi. The Governor urged Tatu Town to respect the decision of the county government and work with the community to develop the land in a way that benefits all stakeholders. “We remain open to dialogue and negotiation, but we will not be intimidated or coerced into changing our decision,” said Wamatangi. “We are committed to the rule of law and the welfare of our residents.”Kiambu Governor Fires Back at Tatu TownKiambu Governor Fires Back at Tatu Town July 11, 2024 Kiambu, Kenya Kiambu County Governor Kimani Wamatangi has denounced allegations by Tatu Town over delays in approving its revised development master plan. In a statement, Governor Wamatangi outlined the county’s position on the matter, emphasizing its commitment to legal land use and allocation of public utilities. Tatu City, a 5,000-acre development, has sought a revision of its master plan, proposing to reduce the land reserved for public amenities from 406 acres to 103 acres. The county government has rejected this proposal, insisting that 10% of the land (approximately 500 acres) should be allocated for public use. Governor Wamatangi stressed the importance of adhering to legal frameworks while supporting investors. “My administration values all investors and has a policy of supporting them,” he said. However, he added that the county must address Mr. Preston Mendenhall’s, Tatu City’s Chief Operating Officer, “unwritten rule” of breaking precedent by speaking out in the media. Wamatangi cited the Physical Planning and Land Use Act 2019 and Regulations 2021 as the legal basis for the county’s request for land allocation for public facilities, such as schools, hospitals, and police stations. The governor also clarified that the county’s land request is solely for public utility purposes, refuting Tatu City’s claims of seeking land for private use. “It is disingenuous for Tatu City to make such allegations,” Wamatangi said. “My administration has no personal or individual interest in the land.”Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has refuted allegations made by Tatu Town over a land use dispute. Tatu Town, a private developer, has accused the county government of illegally blocking its development projects in Ruiru. In a statement, Governor Wamatangi said the county government is committed to protecting public land and ensuring proper land use planning. He said Tatu Town’s allegations are baseless and politically motivated. “The county government has not interfered with Tatu Town’s projects. We have only enforced the law and protected public land. We will continue to do so to ensure the orderly development of our county,” said Governor Wamatangi. Tatu Town has accused the county government of demolishing its perimeter wall and blocking access to its property. The developer says it has valid title deeds for the land and has complied with all legal requirements. Governor Wamatangi has urged Tatu Town to engage in dialogue with the county government to resolve the dispute amicably. He said the county government is open to negotiations and will consider any proposals that are in line with the law. The land dispute has raised concerns among investors and residents in Kiambu County. Many are calling for a speedy resolution to the matter to avoid further uncertainty.