Kanungu Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hon. Dr Gad Rugaju has cautioned newly elected LC1 chairpersons in Kihihi Town Council against treating land sale agreements as mere paperwork, urging them to verify land and involve neighbours before any deal is concluded.
Rugaju made the remarks on Monday during the swearing-in and orientation of newly elected LC1 and LC2 chairpersons at Kihihi Town Council Hall.
He told the new local leaders that whenever residents are buying or selling land in their areas, the LC1 chairperson should be present at the property before the agreement is signed.
“The LC1 chairperson should be there to see the land before the agreement is signed,” Rugaju said.
He also advised residents to involve the closest neighbours in the transaction, saying they can help confirm the actual boundaries and ownership of the land.
Rugaju said the neighbours should be present during the signing of the agreement and should also sign as witnesses.
The Deputy RDC warned that skipping these steps could expose buyers to disputes, particularly in cases where sellers misrepresent the size, boundaries or ownership of land.
He urged the new LC1 chairpersons to be proactive in their communities and use their position to help residents prevent land conflicts before they arise.
Rugaju said involving local leaders and neighbours at the beginning of a transaction can provide important information about the land and help protect both the buyer and seller.
The remarks were part of an orientation session held for the newly sworn-in local council leaders following their assumption of office.
The swearing-in ceremony was held at Kihihi Town Council Hall and brought together the newly elected LC1 and LC2 chairpersons, town council officials and other local leaders.