Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has denied claims that he hired goons last week to infiltrate protests over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
On Sunday, 22 June, Sakaja reiterated that his entire political career has been anchored on clean politics and that he has never resorted to violence for political gain.
“I would like to say for the record — and let me be clear. I have never and will never sponsor violence of any kind. My entire political life has been anchored on siasa safi (clean politics), which upholds human dignity, the rule of law, and the democratic rights of every Kenyan.”
Sakaja went on to blame his political opponents, accusing them of orchestrating the infiltration to tarnish his image.
“There are desperate attempts by certain well-known individuals whose political careers are marked by violence, intimidation, and chaos. They have gone as far as hiring goons to infiltrate protests and claim that I sent them, in order to taint my name and gain political mileage. They have cheapened the cause of our people.”
The governor urged Kenyans to remain peaceful during the planned 25 June protests and assured the public that the police would protect peaceful demonstrators.
“I urge all Kenyans — and the people of Nairobi — to reject violence and criminal behaviour as they take to the streets this coming week. I have spoken to the police commander to ensure that peaceful demonstrators will be protected as they express their rights, which must be exercised within the confines of the law.”
Sakaja’s remarks come amid widespread claims circulating online that he sponsored armed goons who disrupted protests following Ojwang’s death. Although the governor has distanced himself from the violence, videos have emerged showing individuals outside his office declaring that they would not allow protests in the city.
Sakaja was also seen interacting with the alleged leader of the group, known as “Goon-Z”, Swaleh Sonko, prior to the demonstrations.
Many have criticised the governor, with some calling for his arrest.
“Nairobi Governor Sakaja should be in the dock — arrested. The LSK has evidence that he paid the goons and was also captured on video saying ‘Mtanikuta town’,” said Dr Peter Mbae, Secretary for Planning and Economic Affairs at the Democratic Change Party (DCP), during an interview with TV47 on 19 June.
– By Anthony Mwangi
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