Mwea Residents Smell a Rat After Row with Ngome Elders

The residents raised the alarm during a public baraza held at Bondoni in Makima on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 where they claimed the ADR process initiated by the government as a peaceful and inclusive solution was facing sabotage after the Ngome Council reportedly withdrew from the talks led by a government-appointed mediator. The move, they said, cast serious doubt on the council’s commitment to resolving the matter amicably.

Led by Makima Ward MCA and settlement scheme beneficiary Philip Nzangi, the residents described the withdrawal as an act of bad faith meant to derail efforts to uncover the truth surrounding land subdivision and allocation. Nzangi said families living on the land had endured years of uncertainty marked by endless delays, shifting positions, and broken promises, leaving their future hanging in the balance.

“The decision to walk away from dialogue raises serious questions. It shows there are people uncomfortable with transparency and accountability,” said Nzangi, adding that some political leaders were allegedly hiding behind the Ngome Council of Elders to shield personal and political interests at the expense of genuine residents.

According to leaders who addressed the meeting, the subdivision process was riddled with irregularities that shortchanged long-term occupants who have lived on the land for decades. They argued that ADR was the only credible platform to lay bare these injustices and deliver lasting justice.

“We are tired of the zigzags they are taking us through. Everything must be placed on the table so the truth can come out,” Nzangi said, calling on all parties to return to the negotiating table with honesty and goodwill.

His remarks were echoed by Sila Mwaniki, the chairperson of the Mwea Council of Elders, who said residents were united and determined to protect what they consider both ancestral and settlement land. Mwaniki questioned why the Ngome Council would abandon talks if it had nothing to hide, saying the move pointed to fear of scrutiny over alleged irregularities.

“Justice cannot be achieved by walking away. It requires open dialogue and the courage to confront past mistakes,” Mwaniki said.

Another resident, Shadrack Kilonzo, said families had lived on the disputed land for many years and questioned where those calling for evictions expected them to relocate.

“Our demand is simple,,fairness, recognition of our long occupation, and a transparent process that will finally brings closure to this decades-old dispute," said Kilonzo.