Sakaja adamant over relocation of matatus from CBD

Governor Johnson Sakaja makes his remarks during Hustler Fund launch at Railways, Nairobi, on November 30, 2022. [Kelly Ayodi, Standard]

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has told off critics of his plans to relocate long-distance public service vehicles from the Central Business District (CBD).

Speaking after attending service at South B Pefa church, Sunday, the governor maintained that there is no turning back on plans to restore Nairobi to its former glory.

Mr Sakaja also hit out at leaders who have faulted his decision to ban nightclubs from residential areas saying improvement of the residents well-being and decongestion of the city was his sole responsibility as a governor.

At the same, he told critics to stop creating a rift between him and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

"I respect the Deputy President and I would like to remind those speaking from different regions of Kenya trying to cause a rift between the county and national government and Nairobians on tribal lines that they will not succeed. There are duties for county and national government and we will work together," Sakaja said.

The governor urged city residents to accept changes saying though painful they were necessary to move Nairobi to modern urban living.

Sakaja's decision to relocate long-distance PSVs from the CBD has put him at loggerheads with the Deputy President who asked him to consult before taking actions that will hurt businesses of Mt Kenya people who overwhelmingly voted for him. The courts have since halted the relocation of matatus from the CBD to Green Park terminus.

The governor also dismissed threats by Gachagua's allies led by Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga who warned him of impeachment should he relocate the long-distance PSVs from the CBD.

He insisted that he would continue to discharge his duties not only limited to decongesting the city but also working with the national government on major projects such as providing clean and piped water to residents.

This comes a day after a section of Western leaders led by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, asked Sakaja to heed the DP's advice on relocation of matatus or face threats of impeachment.