Amidst chaotic scenes during an eviction from disputed land in Mtwapa, Kilifi County, a tragic incident occurred leading to the death of Maurice Kakunde.
Now, a Member of County Assembly (MCA) finds himself implicated in the unfortunate demise.
Kilifi county’s Criminal Investigation Officer, David Siele, confirmed the arrest of the MCA, stating that charges of manslaughter await him.
According to Siele, investigations suggest the MCA’s involvement in leading the group responsible for the chaos that resulted in Kakunde’s fatal injuries.
The disputed land, purportedly claimed by both the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and a local investor, witnessed a violent clash on March 29. Allegedly, the MCA, alongside local leaders and goons, attempted to demolish a perimeter wall on the land, which NMK insists belongs to the Mtwapa Heritage Site.
In response to the arrest, tension brewed among Kilifi MCAs, disrupting the House business as demands for the release of their colleague echoed through the chambers. Ganze ward MCA Karisa Ngirani and Mariakani ward counterpart Martha Koki voiced their frustrations, citing failed attempts to secure the MCA’s release.
Meanwhile, NMK Board Chairman Edwin Abonyo reaffirmed the institution’s claim over the land, emphasizing its gazetted heritage status dating back to 1935.
Abonyo expressed determination to collaborate with the Kilifi county government to reclaim grabbed NMK land, signaling a legal battle ahead.
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