Nairobi, Kenya – A political showdown is unfolding in Nairobi as a majority of county assembly members rally behind an impeachment bid against Governor Johnson Sakaja. On September 2, at least 85 Nairobi MCAs had appended their signatures to an impeachment motion, exceeding the legal threshold to initiate Sakaja’s ouster. The ward representatives accuse Governor Sakaja of incompetence, neglect of duty and failure to deliver on promises to city residents, citing stalled ward projects and what they term a disconnect with the electorate.

The MCAs, drawn from both government and opposition camps, convened an urgent meeting where they agreed to fast-track the impeachment process. They plan to formally present the motion to the Assembly clerk by Wednesday, September 3, requesting a special sitting to debate Sakaja’s removal. “We have collected at least 85 signatures... according to the requirements by law, what awaits is the motion to be taken to the clerk tomorrow so that it can be received, and we proceed to call a special meeting,” one MCA stated during the charged meeting. An unexpected blackout briefly interrupted their gathering, but the members resolved to press on regardless, vowing not to be deterred.

The grounds for impeachment span more than 20 charges, including alleged corruption in county programs, misuse of funds, and unresponsiveness to issues raised by MCAs. Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai asserted that earlier attempts to engage Sakaja on service delivery had failed, leaving impeachment as the last resort. “He has been making excuses... we are carrying out our oversight mandate on behalf of Nairobi residents,” added another MCA. The push has gained momentum despite intervention attempts by political heavyweights. Opposition leader Raila Odinga reportedly met ODM-affiliated MCAs in a bid to save Sakaja, while the ruling UDA party also summoned its Nairobi members amid concerns the revolt could destabilize the county government. With the city’s top leadership hanging in the balance, all eyes are on the county assembly’s next move in this high-stakes saga.