On a tense Friday, Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson’s motorcade was attacked by angry residents of Kariobangi. This incident occurred while Sakaja was exiting an official function, highlighting the political tensions in certain parts of Nairobi. Let’s delve into the details of this event and its broader implications.
Background
Governor Sakaja’s visit to Kariobangi in Embakasi North Constituency was to officiate the opening of Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital. This hospital, constructed by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, was a significant development aimed at improving healthcare in the region.
The Incident
As Sakaja’s motorcade departed from the official function, it was pelted with stones by irate residents. The situation quickly escalated, prompting the National Police Service to intervene. Water cannons and anti-riot police were deployed to disperse the crowd and ensure the Governor’s safety.
Political Context
Embakasi North is a stronghold of UDA MP James Gakuya, who is currently a major contender against Sakaja for the UDA Chairmanship post in Nairobi. This political rivalry has intensified the hostility towards Sakaja in areas dominated by UDA supporters.
Sakaja’s Challenges
Governor Sakaja has been facing growing hostility in parts of Nairobi, especially in regions with a strong UDA presence. Critics have been vocal about his perceived underperformance, particularly after a report by the Controller of Budget singled out Nairobi for its minimal allocation to the development sector in the last financial year.
Budget Allocation Issues
According to the Controller of Budget, Sakaja allocated only 1% of Nairobi’s Sh32 billion budget to development. The majority of the funds were directed towards luxurious items and the payment of lawyers’ pending bills, sparking widespread criticism.
Public Reaction
The residents’ attack on Sakaja’s motorcade reflects the frustration and dissatisfaction among the locals. Social media platforms were abuzz with reactions, ranging from support for the Governor to sharp criticism of his administration’s priorities.
Official Statements
In the aftermath of the incident, Governor Sakaja chose not to comment on the attack on his official Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) accounts. Instead, he focused on the positive news of opening Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital, emphasizing its benefits to the community.
Opening of Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital
Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital in Kariobangi is now open to the public as a fully-fledged level 5 hospital. This facility promises to significantly improve healthcare services for the residents of Embakasi North, Ruaraka, and Mathare, who form its primary catchment area.
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The incident involving Governor Sakaja’s motorcade in Kariobangi underscores the political and social challenges he faces. While the opening of Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital marks a positive development, the hostile reaction from residents and ongoing criticisms highlight the need for addressing underlying issues within Nairobi’s administration.
FAQs
1. What happened during Sakaja’s visit to Kariobangi? Governor Sakaja’s motorcade was attacked by angry residents of Kariobangi while he was leaving the official opening of Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital.
2. How did the police respond to the motorcade attack? The National Police Service deployed water cannons and anti-riot police to manage the situation and ensure the Governor’s safety.
3. What criticisms has Sakaja faced recently? Sakaja has been criticized for underperformance, particularly after the Controller of Budget reported that Nairobi allocated the least amount of money to development in the last financial year.
4. What is the significance of Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital? Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital is a level 5 facility that aims to provide improved healthcare services to residents of Embakasi North, Ruaraka, and Mathare.
5. How has the public reacted to the incident? The public reaction has been mixed, with some supporting the Governor and others criticizing his administration’s priorities.
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