HC Deb 20 April 1937 vol 322 c1593
75. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when the appointment of Mr. Luka was made as headman for the Tigoni area and the exchange area Nyamweru of Kenya; by whom was he appointed; and whether the appointment carried with it any guarantee that Mr. Luka would agree to the removal of the Tigoni people from the Tigoni area to Nyamweru area?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Luka Wanganga, the leading Elder in Tigoni, was appointed on 21st August, 1936, Headman of Tigoni and the exchange area of Nyamweru, by the Provincial Commissioner of the Central Province of Kenya, acting on behalf of the Governor, in virtue of the authority delegated to him by the relevant Ordinances. I am aware that accusations were made that Luka had been bribed by Government to agree to the move, and that the absurdity of these accusations has been made known locally. No guarantee of any kind was sought or given.

Mr. Creech Jones

Was not an irregular method followed in appointing this headman, and is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this headman had no authority at all to agree to the alienation of the privately-owned lands of other natives?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I think I must have notice of the last part of the question. I am satisfied that this man was appointed headman in accordance with the terms of the Ordinance.

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