- Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has withdrawn as a key witness for the National Assembly in the impeachment trial of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
- Sakaja is in Mexico City for the Bloomberg CityLab 2024 summit and had previously submitted an affidavit accusing Gachagua of undermining Nairobi County’s authority.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially withdrawn from testifying as a witness in the ongoing impeachment trial of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Initially listed as a key witness, Sakaja’s decision comes as he is currently abroad, attending the Bloomberg CityLab 2024 summit in Mexico City.
Despite his absence, Sakaja’s submitted affidavit remains part of the evidence. In it, Sakaja accused Gachagua of overstepping his authority by interfering with Nairobi County’s governance, specifically opposing the relocation of traders from Wakulima Market to Kangundo Road Market. Sakaja detailed how, on September 20, Gachagua allegedly incited citizens against the county’s lawful market management, violating the principle of separation of powers.
The Governor further accused the Deputy President of ethnic incitement in relation to the county’s traffic management plans, including the relocation of matatu terminals. Additionally, Sakaja highlighted Gachagua’s interference with Nairobi’s alcohol regulation efforts as another instance of undermining devolution and county governance.
Even though Sakaja has withdrawn from the impeachment trial, other witnesses, including Cabinet Secretary Mercy Wanjau and former KEMSA acting CEO Andrew Mulwa, are expected to testify.
Sakaja’s withdrawal does not affect the ongoing impeachment proceedings, which were initiated by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse. The motion against Gachagua accuses him of corruption, insubordination, and engaging in divisive politics, with the trial continuing to garner widespread national attention.