Nandi County Senator Samson Cherargei has strongly criticized Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, accusing him of failing to develop the city. Cherargei, a vocal UDA politician, took to social media to express his dissatisfaction, especially after Raila Odinga endorsed Sakaja’s leadership.
He shared a photo of Sakaja speaking with Raila at the Bomas of Kenya during an ODM Women’s Chapter event, implying that the governor was seeking political favors rather than focusing on improving Nairobi.
Cherargei pointed out several areas where he believes Sakaja has failed. He listed road maintenance, garbage collection, and the health sector as critical issues that have been neglected.
He argued that if Sakaja worked as hard to improve the city as he did in seeking political backing, Nairobi would be in a much better state. The senator specifically mentioned potholes on roads, poor garbage collection, and inadequate cleaning efforts beyond the central business district.
He also criticized the health sector, highlighting poor services at facilities such as Mbagathi and Mama Lucy hospitals.
Additionally, he mentioned the stalled Dandora Stadium project as an example of Sakaja’s failed leadership.
Cherargei’s comments reflect growing frustration among leaders and residents over the state of Nairobi. Many have raised concerns about the deteriorating state of infrastructure, with roads filled with potholes, uncollected garbage piling up in estates, and hospitals struggling to provide quality services.
Businesses have also expressed dissatisfaction with Sakaja’s approach, particularly regarding signage regulations, which have led to conflicts between county enforcement officers and traders.
The senator’s criticism comes just a day after Raila Odinga publicly endorsed Sakaja, stating that he trusts him to handle Nairobi’s political affairs in his absence as he pursues the African Union Commission chairmanship.
During the event at Bomas, Raila referred to Sakaja as his “son” and expressed confidence in his leadership. However, Cherargei and other UDA politicians see this endorsement as a sign that Sakaja is aligning himself more with Raila than with the Kenya Kwanza government.
Cherargei’s remarks add to the ongoing debate about Sakaja’s performance as governor. While some argue that he has made efforts to address issues such as water supply and public transport, others believe that his administration has been slow in delivering meaningful change.
The senator’s comments also raise questions about the politics at play, as Sakaja’s relationship with Raila could create tensions within UDA.
Residents of Nairobi continue to bear the brunt of poor governance, with many complaining about the high cost of living, unreliable public services, and deteriorating infrastructure.
