Residents of Mavoko sub-county in Machakos county are calling for a ceasefire between area MP Patrick Makau and Athi River Deputy County Commissioner Charles Wambugu, who have differed over land matters.

Legislator has declared war on Wambugu, accusing him of colluding with well-connected individuals to grab public land, claims the latter dismissed as baseless.

The relationship between the two seems to be worsening by the day, with residents now saying if the leaders do not bury the hatchet, it could lead to an escalation of land disputes in the area.

The standoff between the MP and the county boss has seen several people record statements with the police, alleging death threats over land disputes. 

Area Criminal Investigations Officer Vincent Kipkorir says he has forwarded the report to the investigations team with preliminary findings pointing at land disputes.

Dangerous trend

“We are seeing a dangerous trend where people are regrouping and opting to report malicious murder threats,” says Kipkorir.

“We are seeing residents split into camps and aligning themselves to either the MP or Deputy County Commissioner.

This is very dangerous because the rampant land conflicts are escalating and there is a likelihood of chaos that will disrupt peace and harmony.”

While speaking at a funeral in Machakos recently, Makau accused Wambugu of being behind land disputes in the area.

But Wambugu told off the MP, saying he should prove parcels of land he has or intends to grab.