Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a strong warning against the illegal seizure of ancestral land belonging to the Maa community, calling it a direct assault on their identity and cultural heritage.

In a statement shared on his official X account on Friday, October 3, 2025, Gachagua described the importance of the land to the Maa people, emphasising that it is more than mere property.

“Ancestral land holds profound significance for the Maa community; it is more than just property; it is the heart of their identity, livelihood, cultural traditions, and spiritual beliefs. It is simply an indomitable parental blessing!” he said.

The former Deputy President expressed deep concern over what he termed a forceful takeover of the land by those in positions of power. He described the act as a grave insult to the Maa community and called for accountability.

“The forceful seizure of Maa land by those in power is a grave insult to the community and must be unequivocally condemned and exposed,” Gachagua added.

He also criticised individuals whose desire for land has overridden respect for rightful ownership. “Those with an insatiable appetite for land should be ashamed of their actions and disregard for the rightful ownership of land,” he said.

Gachagua’s comments come amid rising tensions in areas where some communities have historically lived, farmed, and conducted cultural rituals. Land has long been a source of livelihood, social cohesion, and spiritual grounding for the community, making any encroachment a highly sensitive issue.

The remarks highlight the broader issue of land rights in Kenya, particularly for pastoralist communities who often face challenges in protecting their ancestral holdings from politicians, investors, or influential individuals seeking personal gain.

The former Deputy President’s statement calls for stronger protection mechanisms for indigenous lands. By framing the issue around cultural identity and heritage, Gachagua positions the discussion not just as a matter of property but as a question of respect, justice, and human dignity for the Maa people.