Two churches of different denominations in Kisii County are embroiled in a fierce land saga that may result into interdenominational rivalry.
The two, Nyaronge Catholic and their counterparts Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church are both claiming ownership of a piece of land approximated to be 0.75 ha.
Trouble began when the SDA church started constructing a guest house in the piece of land early this month leading to an outcry from the Catholic Church which had also planned to elevate children’s home in the same land.
On Wednesday, Elder Julius Tendeka said the piece of land was legally owned by the SDA Church since they possess a land title deed a claim that was disputed by Philip Oginga, of Nyansiongo Catholic parish, arguing that they too had a title deed.
“We have a land title deed that date back to 1990 when SDA church started. Our friends are not genuine and we are ready to submit the same if need be,” said Tendeka.
However, Oginga said the land had been legally acquired by the Catholic Church in 1970s and they too were ready to table authentic documents to support the claim.
“The SDA church was just build recently. Our title deed dates back in 1970s and we can substantiate that. We should come to a round table and discuss the issues,” said Oginga.
The two leaders however, conquered that there was need to embrace dialogue to reach an amicable solution before the problem escalated.