Kiambu County residents are furious over the sudden increase in land rates. Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has demanded immediate intervention from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), citing violations of constitutional principles and due process.
Speaking before the Senate’s Standing Committee on Lands, Thang’wa criticized Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s administration for raising land rates without notifying residents or holding public participation. He called it a clear breach of the National Rating Act of 2025.
Thang’wa insisted that the county must release the valuation roll. He challenged officials to reveal who prepared it, when it was finalized, and whether it underwent proper scrutiny.
“Kiambu residents have seen land rates skyrocket, yet they got no explanation, no notice, and no access to the valuation roll,” he said. He accused the county leadership of violating Article 201 of the Constitution, which demands fair, equitable, and accountable financial management.
Thang’wa also demanded proof of public participation before the county implemented the new charges. He urged officials to explain the legal basis for the rates and justify why residents must pay more despite poor service delivery.
Business owners and traders have decried the financial strain. They argue that taxes continue to rise, yet roads remain neglected, waste collection is inefficient, and public services fall short.
Thang’wa blasted the county’s approach, declaring, “Residents cannot be taxed for services they don’t receive. We refuse to let opaque taxation crush Kiambu families.” He urged the EACC to investigate potential violations of Article 10, which guarantees public participation, transparency, and accountability in governance.
Thang’wa now awaits the Lands Committee’s response, which will determine if the county followed legal procedures. Meanwhile, residents demand clarity from Governor Wamatangi’s administration.
The senator also called for a review of county tax policies to prevent arbitrary increases. He urged the Senate Committee to recommend corrective measures that protect residents from excessive financial burdens.
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