Mavoko Member of Parliament Patrick Makau Speaking during a bursary issuance exercise at Kyumbi, Kinanie/Mathatani Ward on April 24, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Mavoko Member of Parliament Patrick Makau has launched a fierce attack on the recently introduced Machakos County valuation roll, pledging to overturn it if elected governor in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a bursary issuance exercise at Kyumbi, Kinanie/Mathatani Ward, Makau criticized the county administration’s move, terming the valuation process as punitive to ordinary landowners. He argued that the new system risks overburdening residents with higher land rates, warning that it could ultimately lead to property dispossession.
Makau revealed that he is closely monitoring the ongoing valuation exercise and is prepared to challenge it legally once the registration phase is complete. According to him, the move to revise land values lacks consideration for the economic realities facing residents, particularly those in rural areas.
He proposed an alternative framework that would prioritize landowners’ security and affordability. Central to his proposal is the conversion of land tenure systems from leasehold to freehold, especially for ancestral and rural lands, which he says would shield residents from excessive taxation and uncertainty.
“The only way to protect our people is to ensure they fully own their land without the burden of leasehold conditions,” he stated, adding that such reforms would guarantee long-term stability for families and communities.
Makau further accused the county leadership of prioritizing revenue collection over service delivery, questioning the rationale behind increasing county income without corresponding development outcomes. He argued that existing funds have not been effectively utilized, casting doubt on the need for additional revenue through revised land rates.
In a bold campaign promise, the legislator declared that his administration would abolish the valuation roll entirely if he assumes office. He assured residents that his government would restructure land policies to ease financial pressure and improve living standards.
Drawing from his tenure as Mayor of Mavoko, Makau cited past decisions where he resisted efforts to align Mavoko’s land rating system with that of Nairobi. He maintained that such a move would have unfairly subjected local residents to higher rates comparable to those in the capital.
Makau’s remarks signal the growing political contest around land valuation and taxation in Machakos County, an issue likely to dominate debate as the 2027 elections draw closer.
