Lawmakers have warned that attempts to impeach Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja could plunge the city into the instability experienced during the Nairobi Metropolitan Service (NMS) era.
Speaking in Nairobi on Thursday, the legislators urged both Governor Sakaja and Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to focus on dialogue and development instead of political battles. The group, led by Mathare MP Antony Oluoch, Maureen Tabitha Mutinda, Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje, and nominated Senator Karen Nyamu, praised President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for persuading MCAs to drop the impeachment motion.
“History shows us, particularly with the impeachment of former Governor Mike Sonko, that such actions can destabilize a county for years. Nairobi was left under interim leadership and eventually under the NMS, which delayed development and disrupted service delivery,” Oluoch said.
The lawmakers urged caution, noting that political crises can have lasting consequences. During Sonko’s impeachment, many county projects stalled, and essential services were delayed, leaving residents frustrated.
Senator Mutinda called on both the governor and MCAs to use the next 60 days to engage in constructive dialogue. “We now call upon the Governor and the MCAs to spend the next 60 days addressing the issues raised and working for the people of this city. Governor, make it work,” she said.
The lawmakers also warned that any renewed impeachment attempts could force President Ruto to take measures similar to those during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, when the NMS oversaw many county functions.
They urged all leaders to prioritize Nairobi’s development over politics, emphasizing that stability and cooperation are key to ensuring residents receive essential services without interruption.
