Driver Accuses Gladys Shollei Of Threatening His Life In Sh100M Land Dispute

In a dramatic turn of events at an Eldoret court, Abraham Chebii, a senior driver for the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), has publicly claimed his life is under threat due to a contentious land dispute valued at Sh100 million. Mr. Chebii implicated National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei in the matter, alleging she warned him to withdraw his case or face repercussions.

The dispute centers around a 37-acre parcel of land in the Kaptagat settlement scheme, Ainabkoi, where Chebii asserts inheritance rights from his late father, Paul Cherono. However, this claim is contested by the family of the late Philip Cheruiyot Tumbes, represented by Cledy Kiprono Cheruiyot, who argue that they have lived on and own the land since its acquisition in 1965.

During his testimony before Justice Robert Wananda, Chebii expressed fears for his safety, stating, “I would like to bring to your attention the safety of my life which is in danger following threats against me by Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Shollei in regards to the land ownership case matter I have filed in court.” He emphasized that Shollei, although not a direct party to the suit, had personally warned him against continuing with the legal battle.

Chebii refuted claims by the Tumbes that his father was childless, clarifying that Paul Cherono had two children and had merely leased the land to the Tumbes when he owned land elsewhere in Elgeyo-Marakwet County. He is prepared to present documentary evidence to substantiate his claim of ownership.

Contrarily, Cledy Kiprono Cheruiyot, through his lawyer Elijah Momanyi, insists on their rightful ownership, backed by original title deeds, and challenged Chebii to present his documentation.

The court session saw intense arguments with both sides presenting their cases. The matter has been adjourned to March 10, when further testimonies, including from the registrar of persons, will be heard.