Sakaja Denies Allegations of Funding Nairobi Goons Behind Protest Violence
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has firmly denied claims that he was behind the deployment of goons who disrupted peaceful protests and caused chaos in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Tuesday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sakaja strongly refuted the accusations and condemned the violent actions of the club-wielding groups that vandalized property and terrorized innocent citizens. He clarified that those responsible for the destruction were not from Nairobi and had been brought in from other regions.
“We completely disassociate ourselves from any criminal gangs, militia groups, or politically influenced organizations that take advantage of demonstrations to carry out criminal acts,” said the governor.
He further added, “We strongly condemn the acts of vandalism and destruction of both public and private property that were carried out by hired thugs, who were brought in from outside the city.”
Sakaja’s remarks came in response to growing accusations from several leaders, most notably Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, who directly linked the governor to the gang activities that escalated into chaos across the city.
Owino alleged that Sakaja had a hand in organizing the violence and claimed the operation had the backing of senior government officials.
In a fierce attack on the governor, Babu Owino said, “Johnson Sakaja, your actions do not reflect strength. Hurting others does not show power—it only exposes your blatant disrespect for the law.”
The allegations were further fueled by viral videos circulating on social media, which showed a group of club-wielding men marching past Sakaja’s office while shouting, “We protected the city, Sakaja.”
The video led to widespread speculation that the governor may have played a role in mobilizing the group.
Other video clips showed the alleged goons chanting pro-Sakaja slogans, further intensifying suspicions of the governor’s involvement.
During the protests, several motorbikes were seen ferrying the suspected goons into Nairobi’s city centre. The men, armed with crude weapons such as knives and clubs, threatened protestors and civilians alike.
Witnesses reported that the gang members robbed people of handbags, mobile phones, and other personal belongings.
Some of the online videos also raised concerns about the coordination between the goons and law enforcement officers. In the footage, the suspects appeared to work in cooperation with anti-riot police in clearing the crowds, prompting more outrage from the public.
In his statement, Governor Sakaja called on the National Police Service (NPS) to act swiftly and decisively in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all individuals involved in the violence, looting, and property destruction.
“It is essential that justice is served, not just for those who suffered during the chaos, but also to ensure such acts are not repeated,” Sakaja emphasized. “If the authorities do not take proper action, there is a risk that ordinary citizens may feel forced to take matters into their own hands, which could lead to even greater unrest.”
Sakaja’s comments come as pressure mounts on authorities to take firm action against those behind the violence and to restore public trust amid rising political tensions in the city.
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