National Assembly Lands committee expands probe into contested Miwani Sugar Mills land
Members of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Lands have resolved to widen their investigation into the ownership of a land parcel at the heart of Miwani Sugar Mills.
The land, which has long been the subject of disputes, is currently under an active petition before the committee.
The petition was submitted by South Suba Member of Parliament (MP) Caroli Omondi on behalf of Eng. Francis Elisha Ooko, a former joint receiver manager for Muhoroni/Miwani Sugar Company, which is currently under receivership. Eng. Ooko appeared before the Committee to present evidence and raise concerns regarding the land’s ownership and management.
The Committee, chaired by North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko, resolved to expand the probe after noting the emergence of fresh evidence during a meeting attended by Omondi and Muhoroni MP James K’Oyoo.
The Committee agreed to undertake a physical site visit to the disputed property, engage all stakeholders—including residents, private investors, and government officials—and invite additional interested parties to testify before the panel.
Key stakeholders expected to appear include the CEO of the Kenya Sugar Board and the Judiciary Chief Registrar, particularly on matters relating to court decisions involving the land. However, both officials requested the Committee to reschedule their appearances.
During his appearance, Eng. Ooko expressed fears for his personal safety, requesting protection from the National Assembly while the probe continues. Nyamoko assured him that the Committee would liaise with relevant offices to address the safety concerns.
Providing historical context, K’Oyoo explained that Miwani Sugar Mills (MSM) Ltd was incorporated in 1992 and had previously been placed under receivership in 1988 by the Bank of Baroda, Chase Manhattan Bank, and Cultor Limited (formerly Finish Sugar Company Ltd).
The government later established Miwani Sugar Company (1989) Ltd, a 100 per cent state-owned entity, to acquire the assets of MSM Ltd. The two sole shareholders of the new company were the Permanent Secretaries for Treasury and Agriculture.
Eng. Ooko told MPs that, to date, there is no evidence showing that the assets acquired from MSM Ltd were formally vested in the new government-owned company, raising questions over the legality of current ownership claims.
K’Oyoo further highlighted that the ongoing dispute has heightened tensions among local residents, private investors, and government agencies eyeing sections of the land for public investments.
The prolonged uncertainty has contributed to friction in Muhoroni, where the land is located, complicating development plans and investor confidence.
Chairperson Nyamoko emphasized that the Committee would expedite its deliberations, engage all relevant stakeholders and witnesses, and seek a “speedy and logical conclusion” to this long-standing and complex matter.
“This is clearly a very emotive and complex issue. We will ensure that all persons and entities mentioned in today’s proceedings are invited so that the matter is brought to a proper conclusion,” he said, underscoring the committee’s commitment to transparency and due process in resolving the dispute.
