Both the County and National Government officials held a crisis meeting with the warring factions following threats that one of the feuding groups planned to forcefully invade the scheme to claim their land.
The meeting came just days to the looming invasion of the 44, 000 scheme by the Ngome Council of Elders from the Mbeere Community that was slated for October 17 to ostensibly take over the land they claim to be their ancestral inheritance.
The move has escalated tension between communities involved with those in occupation said to have started arming themselves to counter the move.
In the daylong meeting convened by Governor Cecily Mbarire and County Commissioner Jack Obuo with all parties involved in the dispute represented, it was agreed that the pending invasion be cancelled forthwith to give dialogue a chance.
The teams called for the factions to end incitement, threats, and inflammatory remarks, with offenders being warned of legal action.
“We have reached a consensus that both parties immediately cease hostility and embrace dialogue as a way forward,” Mbarire said.
She said it was agreed the matter be escalated to the Ministry of Interior for further intervention, saying their primary focus was to address the conflict and seek a peaceful solution.
“Once we receive guidance from the ministry, we will convene for a follow-up meeting,” she said.
Obuo said they will beef up security, especially in Makima Ward, where the scheme sits.
“This is a serious security threat, and we appeal to the communities to remain calm as we seek a lasting solution over the dispute,” he said.
Various communities have tussled for over 30 years, with some claiming to have title deeds while others allege that they were left out during subdivision between 2013 and 2016.