Governor Sakaja Faces Heavy Criticism Over Nairobi Floods

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is facing criticism for the city’s handling of recent floods caused by heavy rainfall. Senator Tabitha Mutinda, the vice-chair of the Senate Committee on Finance and Budget, accused the Governor’s office of incompetence, highlighting the devastating impact with over 15 lives lost in the capital.

Read also; Samidoh In Mourning After Death Of Popular Mugithi Singer Kioi

Mutinda pointed a finger at a lack of organization within the county government, which has delayed access to crucial funding for flood mitigation. The national Financing Locally-Led Climate Action program (FLLOCA) funds haven’t reached Nairobi despite being allocated by the Senate.

“Nairobi hasn’t met the basic requirements,” explained Mutinda on Citizen TV’s Daybreak program. “They haven’t signed the agreement outlining the need for a dedicated climate or environment department, nor have they set up a special account to manage these funds.”

Mutinda contrasted Nairobi’s situation with other counties that have successfully received and utilized FLLOCA funds. When pressed on who was responsible for the delay within Nairobi, she placed the blame squarely on the executive branch, led by Governor Sakaja.

Read also; President Ruto Replaces Ogolla With Key Promotions & Appointments

Adding to the criticism, Senator Mutinda pointed out the ineffectiveness of a 200 million Kenyan Shilling emergency fund allocated by the Nairobi County Assembly for the current financial year. She claims the funds haven’t been used properly to address flooding issues.

“The core problem is a lack of planning,” stated Mutinda. “We haven’t seen the emergency funds being used strategically to prevent or lessen the impact of floods.”

The ongoing heavy rains are expected to continue for a while.