NLC Insists Deputy President William Ruto Must Pay for Weston Hotel Land at Current Market Price

The National Lands Commission (NLC) says that Deputy President William Ruto must pay for the parcel of land where Weston Hotel stands at current market value, as he pursues the persons who sold the property to him.

Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, outgoing NLC vice chairperson Abigael Mbagaya says the payment will enable the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to acquire an alternative piece of land of similar size and value.

"If he wants, he can go after the people who sold it to him….that’s what we are doing…you return it because it’s you we have caught on the ground then you chase whoever else who sold it to you to recover your money,” Mbagaya says.

Mbagaya says that a report will be shared with the public once the valuation of the land where the hotel sits is carried out. 

She has also denied claims that there was a political influence on NLC's decision directing Ruto to compensate KCAA.

“How can there be a political influence when you are telling somebody to pay restitution to the people of Kenya?” she poses.

Last week, Ruto admitted that the land where his hotel sits was illegally acquired.

 He, however, exonerated himself from any wrongdoing, saying that he “innocently” purchased the land from its original owners, who got it illegally.

NLC established that KCAA is the rightful owner of the land and wants Ruto to pay the State agency for the land at current rates.