In a surprising twist to the unfolding controversy over a disputed land deal involving the late Isaiah Kiplangat Cheluget, part of the family has come forward in full support of President William Ruto’s claims regarding the acquisition of 5,600 acres in Narok South.
In a press statement issued during a press conference led by Ambassador Nancy Kirui, legally appointed administrators and beneficiaries of Cheluget’s estate confirmed they were aware of and involved in discussions with the president’s representatives over the land transaction.
“We wish to confirm that we have met on several occasions with the President’s representatives, the PS Lands, the Governor for Narok, and the Director for Settlements in an effort to find a long-lasting solution,” the statement reads.
The family clarified that the late Cheluget had indeed made efforts to reach out to the government for a peaceful and amicable resolution before his death in 2017.
“Interestingly, our father… had on several occasions, reached out to the government. Sadly, he passed on before its actualization,” the statement adds.
They also dismissed claims that the estate is still under succession dispute, asserting that all succession matters were legally concluded with a High Court ruling in Kericho and a grant confirmed on June 12, 2018.
“We also wish to bring to your attention that all matters concerning succession and the estate… were conclusively settled,” the family affirmed.
The statement comes just days after Moses Kipkirui Cheluget, another family member, publicly threatened to sue the president, accusing him of misrepresenting facts and claiming the family was unaware of the deal.
This conflicting narrative now paints a picture of internal family disagreement over the handling of the estate and the land transaction with the government. The apparent split may complicate any future legal or political response to the matter.
