Nairobi: Johnson Sakaja on the Spot over Misuse of KSh 20m Set Aside for Kanjo Uniforms
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is facing intense scrutiny over allegations of misusing KSh 20 million meant for inspectorate officers’ uniforms. The funds, allocated for over 1,000 new recruits, were reportedly redirected, leaving them stranded without proper attire and unable to graduate.
Budgeted Funds Vanish
During an oversight committee meeting on Wednesday, March 26, it emerged that despite the availability of funds, recruits could not graduate due to a lack of uniforms. The planned pass-out parade, initially scheduled for July 2024, was postponed indefinitely, raising concerns about accountability within the county government.
Lawmakers Demand Answers
The Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, led by Mugumu-ini MCA Jared Akama, was shocked to learn that the funds had been diverted to other expenses, including legal fees. This mismanagement has left recruits in limbo, as they are now operating without completing their formal graduation and required oath-taking.
Official Speaks Out
Benjamin Omondi, the head of operations for the City Inspectorate, shared the recruits’ frustrations, saying many were distressed by their uncertain future.
“The governor insists the funds have been used by his office, despite our efforts to follow proper procedures,” Omondi revealed.
He pleaded with the committee to resolve the financial issues to ensure the recruits could officially take up their roles.
Committee Issues Warning
The committee’s vice chairman, Hamisi Maleya, ordered county officials to appear before the committee and explain the missing funds. He also warned that deploying unconfirmed officers violates legal and security protocols.
“These recruits are putting themselves at great risk,” Maleya cautioned, adding that without the official oath, they lack the authority to make arrests or enforce county laws.
This is the first time in Nairobi’s history that inspectorate officers have failed to attend a pass-out parade due to budgetary mismanagement. The controversy has placed Sakaja’s administration under mounting pressure.
Previous Financial Concerns
This is not the first time Sakaja’s government has faced questions over financial mismanagement. In May 2024, his flagship Dishi na County school feeding program came under scrutiny after KSh 140 million from the French government was allegedly sent directly to the implementer’s account instead of the county treasury.
During a County Assembly Committee session, Health CEC Susan Silantoi struggled to explain the allocation of funds. The program, designed to provide meals for 25,000 students at KSh 5 per meal, has since raised concerns about transparency and accountability.
With mounting allegations, Nairobi residents and lawmakers are demanding urgent accountability from Governor Sakaja and his administration.
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Nairobi: Johnson Sakaja on the Spot over Misuse of KSh 20m Set Aside for Kanjo Uniforms
