Liza Chelule: Why Nakuru State House should be relocated

Legislators are pushing for the relocation of Nakuru state house over limited spaces and other security concerns

County Woman representative Liza Chelule who is spearheading efforts to relocate Nakuru State House, claims the current facility no longer suits the image required for a modern State House.

According to Ms Chelule, the State House is located on a relatively small parcel of land and is situated close to the highway, factors she says raise concerns about space and long-term expansion.

She adds that the current setting does not adequately accommodate the interests and expectations of the public, pointing out the need for improved facilities, including a proper pavilion, among other considerations she chose not to elaborate on.

“The current State House does not have sufficient land and requires expansion, including the construction of a pavilion and additional space that would reflect the stature of a State House,” she notes, adding that the Nakuru State House is expected to accommodate large numbers of people during presidential functions, yet the existing grounds are limited in size.

The issue featured prominently in discussions before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on National Administration and Internal Security during its review of the 2026/2027 State House budget estimates, where State House Comptroller Dr Katoo Ole Metito defended the proposed funding allocations.

In her view, if relocation is necessary, the State House should be moved to the outskirts of Nakuru.

Her remarks appear to contrast with sentiments attributed to Dr Katoo Ole Metito, who had indicated that expansion would be challenging due to surrounding properties being privately owned.

Chelule, however, suggests that issues such as possible land encroachment along the highway may have affected the area’s development.

Speaking during a phone call interview, she also raises security concerns, citing the rise of tall buildings around the facility.

“There are high-rise structures around here, including the county offices. While the building is aesthetically impressive, it may pose security considerations. However, instead of relocating government offices, it would be more appropriate to reconsider the location of the State House,” she argues.

Mtaa Wangu in October spoke to a planner, who, in confidence, at that time answered concerns of rapid investments after decades, the neighborhood was 'assumed' to be a no-go zone for said investors.

Then, they said that the law, however, draws a finer line, noting that the Protected Areas Act allows the government to gazette State Houses as protected zones, limiting access and use. But it does not in itself ban construction nearby, and that land-use and building control fall under the Physical and Land Use Planning Act, which is implemented by counties.

The planner familiar with the area had explained that the recent surge of construction near Nakuru State House contradicts long-standing planning and security protocols governing development around such protected installations.

However, when asked about this, Chelule asks, “Why do you think it is not possible?”

The planner noted that State Houses, military barracks, police camps, and airports fall under a special category of ‘safeguarded or protected areas’, where development is heavily regulated to prevent security risks or visual intrusion into sensitive compounds.

They also pointed out that by law, no structure should rise high enough to overlook the State House, and that permits in such areas must undergo additional scrutiny involving national security agencies before approval.

And even as these investments unfolded, they also cautioned that the law doesn’t foresee the State House relocating, given its symbolic and historical importance, making such proximity-sensitive planning rules permanent.

Ms Chelule has the backing of the Committee chairperson and Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, who acknowledges concerns over the location and lack of space at Nakuru State House.

He said the committee had previously discussed the issue, noting that surrounding developments belonged to legitimate landowners and the county government, making expansion difficult unless the State acquired more land.

Mr Tongoyo, however, noted that the current budget had allocated Sh100 million for renovation of State Houses and State lodges across the country and suggested part of the allocation be used to improve facilities at the Nakuru residence as discussions on relocation continue.

During the committee meeting, the legislator specifically proposed refurbishment of a pavilion previously used by former President Daniel Arap Moi to host delegations.

However, Chelule rejected the proposal, insisting that renovating the current compound would not address the underlying challenges.