Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has denied extortion claims leveled against him by Tatu City investors.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, July 11, Wamatangi refuted allegations that he wanted a parcel of land in the vast Kiambu Estate to build his private residence.
According to the governor, the county government has sought land for various public amenities. This included land for the official residence of the governor.
He explained that the land being sought was per the law which required private developers to allocate 10 per cent of land for public amenities such as schools and hospitals.
Wamatangi added that the planned official residence of the governor would have been the property of the county government.
He noted that plans to construct the governor's residence were in line with a directive issued by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
"It is incumbent upon every county government to ensure that the officers from the speaker to the governor have residences to save the public from housing allowances.
"I have a private house. I do not need another one," he stated.
According to Wamatangi, the recent accusations were part of the politics that have been ongoing in the county.
He detailed that the difference with Tatu City emerged after the investors reduced the size of land that was set to be surrendered for public utilities.
Wamatangi claimed that the investors only allocated 103 acres from the previous 406 acres. He added that the 406 acres was still less than the expected 10 per cent. Tatu City is reported to own 5,000 acres of land.
"Since its formation 14 years ago, Tatu City has not surrendered not even an inch to the county government as required by law," he added.
He noted that the allegations were aimed at tarnishing his reputation and that of his government. Therefore, he noted that he would be moving to Court to seek redress.
Wamatangi made the remarks after investors at Tatu City claimed that he had demanded some acres of land at the property.
"Governor Wamatangi has held up the approval of Tatu City’s new Master Plan for more than a year and a half while he and county officials attempted to seize more than 40 acres of land, including for Governor Wamatangi’s residence.
"Tatu City estimates that Governor Wamatangi’s delay has cost the county and country more than Ksh16 billion (USD 125 million) in additional investment value and 4,500 new jobs for young Kenyans," officials at Tatu City claimed.
