The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has successfully reclaimed public land valued at Ksh. 65 million in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, marking a significant legal victory in the fight against corruption and irregular land acquisition.

The contested parcel Kitale Municipality Block 11/18, measuring 1.732 acres—had been unlawfully allocated in 1999 to the late Charles Lugano, a private individual, despite being officially reserved for government housing. The property included Government House No. KITA/HOU/HG/2, which had been occupied by a Chief Magistrate before eviction.

In a landmark ruling, the Environment and Land Court affirmed that the allocation was fraudulent and violated numerous legal provisions, including the Government Lands Act. It emerged that the land’s allocation relied on an outdated parcel number and bypassed required procedures such as approvals, survey reports, and proper documentation.

Key testimonies from senior government officials and planning experts confirmed that the land had been earmarked for public use since 1928, as evidenced by the original survey plan (FR 28/60), the 1974 Development Plan, and related official records.

Forensic analysis further revealed that a purported legal letter supporting the registration was a forgery. Justice Dr. Fred Nyagaka declared the title deed issued in 2002 null and void, ordering its immediate cancellation. The court directed the Trans Nzoia County Land Registrar to return the parcel to the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development.

In addition to the recovery, the court awarded the government Ksh. 3 million in damages for the illegal demolition of the official residence and Ksh. 252,000 for lost rental income.

This ruling reinforces the EACC’s mandate to protect public assets and restore illegally acquired land to rightful public use, setting a precedent for future anti-corruption and land reclamation efforts.