Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has explained the reason he skipped the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment trial at the Senate on October 16, 2024.
In tweet, Sakaja said “Hakuna haja ya kuskuma gari kwa mteremko. c’est fini.” This translates to “There is no need to push the car downhill. It’s over.”
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Sakaja was among the National Assembly witnesses expected to testify against Gachagua and his absence when the proceedings started raised a lot of questions about his whereabout.
Sakaja is currently attending the Bloomberg CityLab 2024 event in Mexico, where he serves as one of the keynote speakers.
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Speaking at the event on October 16, Sakaja praised Kenyan youth (Gen Z) for coming out in large numbers to demand change in governance.
He highlighted that this marked the first time African youth have demanded transparency and sought to be part of the solution.
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Sakaja explained that the government has been forced to adapt its programs to meet the needs of the youth.
“That has led us to redefine our programs in terms of how we work and engage with these young people. They have said if they are not at the negotiating table, they are on the menu, but they don’t want to be there. So, if they are not at the negotiating table, there will be a table, and that is very bold for the continent of Africa,” he said.
Sakaja Hails Feeding Program
Sakaja also highlighted the success of the Dishi na County School Feeding Program in Nairobi.
He pointed out that the national government has adopted the program and plans to roll it out nationwide.
“The program has increased school admissions, boosted daily attendance, and reduced feeding costs for certain families. The World Food Program actually asked me if they can use this model across Africa. I hope that will become reality,” he said.
Also Read: Sakaja Withdraws from DP Gachagua Impeachment Case
Change in Democracy Structure
Additionally, Sakaja urged governments to question the structure of democracy, considering the growing youth population.
He emphasized that many governance institutions were developed in the 19th century, designed to run on the information technology of the 15th century.
“Unless we reimagine governance and leadership, we will all get lost,” Sakaja said.
Also Read: Senators Rallying Behind Gachagua Amid Ongoing Impeachment
Gachagua’s Impeachment National Assembly Witnesses
Meanwhile, the Senate started hearing Gachagua’s impeachment motion on October 16. Sakaja was expected to testify against the Deputy President alongside former KEMSA Acting CEO Dr. Andrew Mulwa and Cabinet Secretary Mercy Wanjau.
In his affidavit, Sakaja accused Gachagua of opposing the relocation of traders from Nairobi’s Wakulima Market to Kangundo Road Market, stating that this decision rested with the county government, not the office of the Deputy President, thus violating the principle of separation of powers.
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