The estate of the late Martin Shikuku, famously known as the ‘People’s Watchman, has become the subject of a bitter family dispute now playing out in court, pitting his children against one another.
The veteran politician who built a reputation as a defender of the common citizens during his years in Parliament is now at the centre of a legal battle involving the validity of a contested will, ownership of prime properties, and allegations of attempted evictions within his family.
At the heart of the dispute is a will allegedly presented by one of Shikuku’s sons, which other family members argue was forged.
The will reportedly lists prominent figures, including the late Raila Odinga and the late conservationist Richard Leakey, as witnesses.
According to legal experts, a will is only valid if witnesses were physically present and signed in the presence of the testator.
If a witness wasn’t physically present to sign in the presence of the testator, the whole document is a ticking time bomb.
Shikuku’s son obtained a Grant of Probate, giving him temporary authority to manage the estate.
However, he attempted to evict his stepmother from one of the family properties, prompting the court to intervene.
The court subsequently suspended the grant, citing unresolved questions over the authenticity of the will.
Other members of the Shikuku family maintain that no valid will exists, a position that could result in the estate being treated as intestate.
Under intestate succession, the law determines how assets are distributed, a process that often fuels prolonged disputes and costly litigation.
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