Sakaja Denies Sponsoring Goons During Tuesday's Protests
![Sakaja Denies Sponsoring Goons During Tuesday's Protests](/content/images/size/w1200/2024/07/c893553c-f03d-470b-928f-6ea296cec422.png)
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has denied allegations that he hired goons to instigate violence during the anti-government protests on July 2. Speaking on July 4, Sakaja stated that he was in Diani for a retreat with his Cabinet during the protests and questioned why he was being accused while he was away. He condemned the looting of businesses and the destruction of property, advocating for clean politics irrespective of political affiliations.
Sakaja expressed concern over video evidence suggesting the involvement of goons in the demonstrations and called for an investigation into the matter. He acknowledged a clip showing unknown youth with crude weapons at City Hall and stated that the incident is under investigation. He also criticised politicians for using his name to falsely link him to the violence, urging them to adopt his "siasa safi" approach, which respects all viewpoints. During the protests, a section of City Hall, including his office, was set on fire, prompting Sakaja to withdraw the 2024 County Finance Bill to allow for more public participation.