Former Eldoret East MP Joseph Lagat was on the spot at the Eldoret Environment and Lands Court after he repeatedly declined to respond to questions during cross-examination in a Sh30 million land dispute.
Lagat appeared frustrated during the proceedings as lawyer Charles Nyamweya pressed him for answers over his possession of the disputed parcel in Chepkanga, along the Eldoret-Iten highway.
The former lawmaker is embroiled in a legal battle with real estate developer Duncan Kitur, who claims Lagat has prevented him from accessing the property despite holding its title deed.
Kitur has also accused Lagat of ploughing the land despite an existing court order barring any activities on the property until the dispute is heard and determined.
The order, issued on March 14, 2018, by then Environment and Lands Court Judge Millicent Odeny, required the parties to maintain the status quo and prohibited activities including tree felling and construction.
During questioning, Lagat admitted that he was in possession of the property despite not obtaining approval from the Land Control Board in Moiben Sub County.
He further told the court that he had entered into a sale agreement with Kitur and paid more than Sh4 million towards the purchase of the land.
However, Lagat rejected claims that he still owes Kitur more than Sh3 million, despite the developer maintaining that the balance remains unpaid.
The heated exchange prompted Eldoret Presiding Judge Charles Yano to intervene and direct Lagat to provide straightforward yes-or-no answers where possible to help move the proceedings along.
Lagat was later stood down after completing his evidence in the case.
The court has meanwhile summoned his wife, Sarah Lagat, to appear in person and face cross-examination concerning the disputed property.
The matter is scheduled to resume on November 3, 2026.
