Nairobi, KENYA: A lobby group under the umbrella of Bunge la Mwananchi in partnership with Nairobi Traders Association have blamed cartels for the fall out between deputy governor Polycarp Igathe and Governor Sonko.
Addressing journalists in a joint statement on Tuesday in Nairobi, chair of Nairobi Traders Association David Oyola noted that, the deep-rooted Cartel menace in Nairobi is not ready for any kind of change soon.
The group says despite their political affiliations, Sonko’s commitment earned them their support.
“We fully support Governor Sonko as he endeavors to deliver what he promised Nairobians. Since the day he was declared the winner, he has shown his human side. He started using his own resources to collect garbage and clean our city but the cartels ‘ tenderpreneur’ in between are the ones fighting him,” said Oyola.
He pointed that during governor Sonko’s 100 days in office, it was marked by the turmoil of opposition riots that disproportionately affected the city despite the fact that Nairobi experienced silent but steady positive transformation.
“We saw revenue collection grow remarkably. This happened because corruption was and is still being dealt with, corruption in Nairobi county is down by about 70% and 36 people have been charged in court so far and more are being pursued.” He said.
He added that almost 60% of potholes within the CBD have been filled and road projects such as the Ngong Road-Mbagathi Road roundabout have been completed.
“For the first time in city hall history, county workers were paid on time. They received their December salaries on the 24th like bankers. All these were paid from collected revenue since the national government had not dispatched any money to the counties.”He said.
They however urged the Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) in Nairobi County to offer the governor all support he needs to execute his mandate to Nairobians.
Nairobi governor has been quoted saying that he will deliver to Nairobians as he has a strategic team behind him and there is no need for Wananchi to panic.
READ MORE: Sonko assures Nairobi residents of efficient services despite Igathe’s exit
