Translating Law to Practice; Kenyan Perspective.

LEGAL GAPS IN COMPULSORY ACQUISITION PROCESS IN KENYA.

Compulsory acquisition is the power of government to acquire private rights in land for a public purpose, without the willing consent of its owner or occupant. This power can be referred by a myriad of names depending on a country’s legal traditions, for example; eminent domain, expropriation, takings and compulsory purchase. Compulsory acquisition is a critical development tool for governments, and for ensuring that land is available when needed for essential infrastructure.

A LEGAL ANALYSIS OF THE MANDATE OF NATIONAL LAND COMMISSION UNDER THE NATIONAL LAND COMMISSION ACT.

Section 5 of the National Land Commission Act stipulates the functions of the National Land Commission. The functions, therein, are inter-alia derived from Article 67(2) of the Constitution of Kenya. The Supreme Court of Kenya, In the Matter of the National Land Commission, whilst rendering an advisory opinion[3] sought by the Commission emphasized on Functional independence: that entailed commissions exercising their autonomy through carrying out their functions, without receiving any instructions or orders from other State organs or bodies. That had also been referred to as administrative independence. Functional independence was in line with the general functions and powers of commissions, as provided under articles 252 and 253 of the Constitution[4]. The Supreme Court of Kenya in its Advisory Opinion underlined the Perception of independence: That meant the commissions had to be seen to be carrying out their functions free from external interferences. The perception of independence was crucial in showing proof of independence.