Lamu, KENYA: The county government of Lamu has warned the National Lands Commission-NLC against duping land owners whose lands have been acquired for the setting up of a coal fired power plant in Lamu.
The NLC has already commenced the verification and approval of individual land owners who are to be compensated for the lands in Kwasasi village,Lamu county.
Speaking in Lamu on Thursday,Lamu governor Issa Timamy asked the NLC to ensure the entire exercise is free and fair in order to ensure justice for the land owners.
Timamy said he had already received complaints from the land owners who claim the land acquired is too big compared to the amount of money the commission wants to pay.
According to the NLC, an acre of land at the site will be compensated for Sh.800,000.
The governor says there is need for the commission to fully involve the county government in all processes involving the identification,verification and approval of genuine land owners to be compensated.
Timamy swore to stand by his people and ensure they get the desired justice for their lands.
“I understand the NLC has already started identifying and verifying the land owners at Kwasasi. NLC must ensure justice; we don’t want cases where genuine persons are left out while imposters are paid for the lands.I am awaiting an official report from the NLC before I make my stand on the matter;people are already complaining you know and it’s unfortunate because the process hasn’t even began,”said Timamy.
The NLC Muhammad Swazuri insisted that The verification and approval exercise is meant to flush out any impostors and fake claimants and ensure only genuine persons are paid for the lands.
“We have a list of names which we have already subjected to scrutiny.we can never give money to people who don’t deserve.as a commission we strive to remain professional and ensure justice in all our decisions,”said Swazuri.
READ ALSO: NLC begins vetting process of individuals to be compensated for coal plant land
The Sh.200 Billion coal plant project is being undertaken by the Amu Power Company and is expected to generate about 1,050 MW of power upon completion.
A total of 975 acres of land have been acquired for the establishment of the plant.
