Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia has issued a stern warning to individuals attempting to encroach on Meru County boundaries stating that no inch of the county will be encroached by neighbors.
The warning comes amid an ongoing boundary dispute in Ngare Ndare, Kisima Ward with neighboring Isiolo County.
Speaking at the Meru County headquarters during a meeting with residents of Ngare Ndare, Governor Mutuma assured the residents that the county government would take firm action to protect public land, especially in areas bordering Isiolo County.
The residents led by Kisima Ward MCA Patrick Mutuma had visited the governor to present a petition over what they described as constant harassment and land grabbing attempts from individuals across the border.
The MCA emphasized the residents’ concerns noting that the disputed area carries facilities built and funded by Meru County.
He urged the county to step in before the situation escalates.
Mutuma expressed fear that the disputed land boundary which hosts key public facilities like a school and a church, could be lost if the county doesn’t act fast.
The residents asked the governor to intervene by initiating a clear boundary restoration process that would bring lasting peace to the residents.
“We want you to help us because the time we have been in Ngare Ndare, we have appeared to be abandoned. That is a fact those encroaching our land have known, leading them to chase us away,” said Mutuma.
In addition, the residents noted that Governor Mutuma’s tough stance in defending Meru’s boundaries had awaken their hope citing a previous statement he made, saying no part of Meru would be taken, which they said sent a strong message.
Governor Mutuma restated his earlier remarks, saying he was serious when he uttered his remarks and that he remains serious till now.
He insisted that the matter was not political but one that included the search for dignity, and justice for Meru residents.
“That day I didn’t want claps. I was driving home a message to those joking with Meru’s boundaries. I knew the risks, but I had to come because I had heard Meru people crying. They were being oppressed by people who think we don’t know our land,” said Mutuma.
He emphasized that his administration would use lawful means to reclaim any land that had already been taken, making it clear that Meru County does not condone violence but would instead rely on institutions like the National Land Commission and Ministry of Interior to resolve the matter.
“We will ensure that even what was taken in the past, which now seems to be part of their wealth, will be reclaimed. We won’t use violence, because Meru people don’t condone that. We’ll use the laws of Kenya,” he said.
