Paul Muite to lead Malili land probe

Lawyer Paul Muite addresses journalists at the Milimani Law Courts on December 3, 2013. PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL | FILE

By  PAUL OGEMBA

What you need to know:

  • The DCI last month asked the DPP to arrest and prosecute Mr Muthama and Mr Mutua among others, saying it had obtained evidence linking them to fraud and forgery in the land sale
  • The recommendations followed investigation into alleged misappropriation of Sh1 billion paid by the Government to purchase 5,000 acres of the ranch

The fate of Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama, Law Society of Kenya chairman Eric Mutua and seven others over claims of fraud in the Sh1 billion Malili ranch sale now lies with lawyer Paul Muite.

Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko has instructed the senior counsel to review the recommendations of the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and decide whether or not the group should be prosecuted.

The lawyer is required to scrutinise the police records, witness and suspects’ statements, and all documentary evidence.

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“We would like you to advise our office on whether sufficient evidence is disclosed to prosecute the suspects or any other person named in the inquiry file. We would also want you to conduct on our behalf any prosecution that may ensue in relation to the matter,” said Mr Tobiko.

The DCI last month asked the DPP to arrest and prosecute Mr Muthama and Mr Mutua among others, saying it had obtained evidence linking them to fraud and forgery in the land sale.

Former Information and Communications permanent secretary Bitange Ndemo, Commission on Implementation of the Constitution member Kamotho Waiganjo, Mr James Waweru, formerly of the Attorney-General’s office, and former Lands Commissioner Zablon Mabea were in the list.

The others are Mr Peter Mutua Kanyi, Mr Julius Maweu Kilonzo and lawyer Alphonce Munene Mutinda.

The recommendations followed investigation into alleged misappropriation of Sh1 billion paid by the Government to purchase 5,000 acres of the ranch for the construction of the proposed Konza Technology City.

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