Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s absence from Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment trial raised questions. Instead of attending, he was at the Bloomberg CityLab 2024 summit in Mexico City, where he spoke on urban governance and the role of youth in city policy.
Sakaja was listed as a key witness for the trial but did not show up. His absence surprised many, including Gachagua’s lawyer, who was eager to cross-examine him. Sakaja had previously submitted an affidavit accusing Gachagua of interfering unlawfully with Nairobi County’s operations, such as the relocation of traders and inciting public unrest against county decisions.
In his affidavit, Sakaja claimed Gachagua violated the separation of powers by holding rallies that disrupted the county’s plans, particularly regarding traffic reorganization and matatu terminals. He criticized Gachagua’s alleged use of ethnic sentiments and meddling in local government functions, describing his actions as “reckless” and harmful to the authority of county governments.
While in Mexico, Sakaja participated in discussions unrelated to the impeachment trial, which led to speculation that he may have intentionally chosen to avoid the politically charged situation back home. His attendance at the summit had been planned ahead of time, suggesting his absence from the trial was not a last-minute decision.
Overall, Sakaja’s role in the trial and his absence from such a significant event have stirred discussion about his priorities and the political landscape in Kenya. His allegations against Gachagua are part of broader concerns regarding governance and the functioning of county governments in the country.
By Kenyans