A section of Nairobi County leaders, led by Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, has launched a scathing attack on Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration, accusing it of incompetence, financial mismanagement, and abuse of power.
In a strongly-worded statement, the leaders highlighted several issues plaguing Nairobi County, ranging from infrastructure problems to governance issues.
The leaders began by pointing out the deteriorating state of Nairobi’s infrastructure, citing widespread sewerage problems, garbage mountains in residential areas, and water shortages that persist even during flooding. They also raised concerns about poorly planned high-rise constructions that are mushrooming across the city without proper approval or adherence to regulations.
Adding fuel to the fire, Kiarie referenced a recent Auditor General’s report that allegedly exposed gross financial mismanagement within Sakaja’s administration. The report reportedly revealed payments to ghost workers and selective payment of bills in exchange for kickbacks, painting a picture of a county government plagued by financial irregularities.
Kiarie accused a junior officer in the Governor’s office of approving over 600 building plans against the Physical Land Planning Act. This unauthorized approval has led to the proliferation of unplanned high-rise buildings, colloquially referred to as ‘kiudutho’ development, which are cropping up in every corner of Nairobi.
The leaders also condemned the acquisition of luxury assets by top Nairobi County officials, describing it as a brazen disregard for public welfare. Kiarie criticized the officials for pilfering public funds and displaying “juvenile bravado” by flaunting their ill-gotten wealth while neglecting their responsibilities to the people of Nairobi.
The Dagoreti South MP expressed concern over the divisive tactics employed by Governor Sakaja’s administration, accusing them of pitting leaders against each other and sponsoring squabbles as an “expensive hobby.” He called for unity among leaders and a more collaborative approach to governance.
Demanding a leadership change at City Hall, Kiarie emphasized the need for a clear vision and a well-thought-out master plan to guide policy decisions and development projects in Nairobi County. He stressed that Nairobi deserves a leadership that is accountable, transparent, and focused on improving the lives of its residents.
Governor Sakaja and his administration face increasing pressure to address these concerns and restore public trust. Failure to do so could further erode confidence in the current leadership and strengthen calls for change among residents and other leaders in Nairobi County.