Ruto’s Controversial Ndabibi Farm Acquisition: Justice for 140,000 Kenyans Still Elusive

By Orenge Wycliff

Ruto’s Controversial Ndabibi Farm Acquisition: Justice for 140,000 Kenyans Still Elusive

In the heart of Kenya’s expansive Rift Valley lies the controversial Ndabibi farm, a 5,000-acre stretch of land that has become a symbol of the country’s long-standing land disputes. At the center of this dispute is President William Ruto, who claims ownership of the land, allegedly purchased from former Permanent Secretary Benjamin Kipkulei. However, the rightful ownership of the land is deeply contested, and many believe that justice lies with the Ndabibi farmers — a group of 140,000 elderly Kenyans whose lives have been intertwined with the farm for generations.

The ongoing saga is eerily reminiscent of a 2013 court case where Ruto was ordered to surrender 100 acres of land to the late Adrian Mutesi, after the courts found that Ruto had acquired the property under questionable circumstances in 2008. The parallels between the two cases are striking, with both involving allegations of fraudulent acquisition, misuse of power, and victimization of vulnerable communitie

Dr Isaac Newton Kinity , fighter for Human rights based in the US.

A Historical Injustice

The Ndabibi farm’s story begins with Gilbert Colville, a settler who owned the land until his death in 1966. In his will, Colville bequeathed the land to the Ndabibi farmers — individuals who had worked for him and his family for decades. Colville’s widow, Diana Delves Broughton, honored this wish, facilitating the transfer of the land to the group. However, the farmers lacked the resources to fully pay for the title deeds, leading to a mortgage arrangement under which they reserved 1,000 acres of the land to generate income for loan repayment.

This arrangement was disrupted in the 1990s when Benjamin Kipkulei allegedly used forged documents to claim the 1,000-acre portion of the land. Despite legal battles that eventually saw Kipkulei lose his case in 2015, the Ndabibi farmers’ troubles were far from over. Ruto, citing a purchase from Kipkulei, later laid claim to the entire 5,000-acre farm.

Evictions and Alleged Abuse of Power

In a series of actions that shocked the nation, police, reportedly acting under Ruto’s orders, violently evicted the farmers from the land. Elderly residents — some in their nineties — were subjected to beatings, their homes were torched, and their properties destroyed. The evictions left the farmers homeless, destitute, and deeply traumatized.

The Ndabibi farmers maintain that their claim to the land is legally and morally justified. They argue that, even if considered squatters under Kenyan law, their decades-long occupation would grant them ownership through adverse possession. However, their case is far stronger: they have documented evidence of inheritance through Colville’s will.

A Pattern of Disregard for Justice?

The Ndabibi farm dispute has drawn comparisons to Ruto’s earlier land scandal involving the late Adrian Mutesi. In that case, Ruto argued that he had purchased the land from a woman who could not prove ownership. The courts ruled against Ruto, ordering him to return the land to Mutesi and pay Kshs 5 million in compensation.

The pattern of alleged land grabbing raises questions about the extent to which those in power can manipulate systems to their advantage. Critics argue that Ruto’s actions not only undermine the rule of law but also perpetuate historical injustices against vulnerable communities.

The Call for Justice

As the Ndabibi farmers continue to seek justice, public opinion is increasingly rallying behind them. Advocacy groups, legal experts, and community leaders have condemned the evictions and called for the government to uphold the farmers’ rights.

Legal experts argue that Ruto’s surrender of the Ndabibi farm could set a precedent for resolving similar land disputes across the country. “This is an opportunity for the President to demonstrate his commitment to justice and accountability,” says John Mutua, a Nairobi-based constitutional lawyer. “Returning the land to the Ndabibi farmers would restore their dignity and send a powerful message that no one is above the law.”

The Broader Implications

Land ownership has long been a contentious issue in Kenya, often serving as a source of inequality and conflict. Previous administrations have struggled to address historical injustices tied to land, with many blaming systemic corruption and lack of political will. Critics argue that Ruto’s actions, if left unaddressed, would further erode public trust in the government’s ability to resolve these issues.

The Ndabibi farmers’ plight highlights the need for comprehensive land reforms. Experts suggest that transparent processes, robust enforcement of property rights, and accountability for public officials involved in land disputes are essential to addressing the problem.

Returning the Ndabibi farm to its rightful owners would have far-reaching benefits for the affected community. Beyond restoring their livelihoods, it would provide a foundation for economic growth. The farmers, many of whom are elderly and rely on the land for sustenance, could rebuild their lives and pass on a secure legacy to future generations.

A Chance for Redemption

For President Ruto, surrendering the Ndabibi farm represents more than just resolving a land dispute. It is an opportunity to redefine his legacy as a leader committed to justice and equality. By prioritizing the welfare of the Ndabibi farmers, Ruto could demonstrate a willingness to place national unity and the rule of law above personal or political interests.

Moreover, such a gesture would resonate beyond the borders of Ndabibi. It would signal to all Kenyans that the era of impunity, where the powerful exploit the weak, is coming to an end. In a country where land ownership often defines identity and opportunity, this could mark the beginning of a new chapter.

The Path Forward

The plight of the Ndabibi farmers is a microcosm of Kenya’s broader struggles with land injustices and systemic corruption. Resolving this dispute would require not only the return of the farm but also compensation for the farmers’ losses during the violent evictions.

As the Ndabibi case continues to unfold, it has become a litmus test for Kenya’s judiciary and political leadership. Will the courts and the government uphold the rule of law, or will impunity prevail? For the 140,000 Ndabibi farmers, justice delayed is justice denied.

For President Ruto, the choice is clear: surrender the Ndabibi farm and stand on the right side of history. As the late Kofi Annan once said, “You can’t have development without justice.” By restoring the Ndabibi farmers’ rights, Kenya could take a significant step toward healing its land-related wounds and building a more just society.