Sankwasa announces Kayoka Gciriku hompa

Urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa announced Aruvita Kayoka as the new Hompa of the Gciriku Traditional Authority on Tuesday. The decision brings to an end a seven-year succession dispute within the authority, which began following the death of Hompa Kassian Shiyambi in 2019. It follows a January 2026 ruling by High Court Judge Essi Schimming-Chase, which set aside the 2023 designation of Maraghuli Mashika as Hompa and referred the matter back for reconsideration, paving the way for a renewed consultation process. Sankwasa said the final decision was reached after extensive consultations with the two disputing factions and in line with the customs and traditions of the Gciriku Traditional Authority.