Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja Unceremoniously Ejected from President’s Jet to China

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was unexpectedly removed from the presidential jet set to take President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga to the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing.

This incident, occurring just hours before their departure, raises questions about why Sakaja was excluded.

Why Sakaja Was Abruptly Kicked Off President Ruto’s Jet to China

Sakaja’s political career has faced numerous controversies. His removal from the jet may be linked to a past incident where he violated COVID-19 curfew rules.

In 2021, police arrested him at Ladies Lounge, a Kilimani bar, for drinking after curfew. Officers found him with a group of 10 people at 1:10 am. Sakaja reportedly challenged the police to arrest him, highlighting his defiance.

The curfew violation is not the only issue tarnishing Sakaja’s reputation. Many Nairobi residents view him as incompetent and corrupt.

In July 2023, the Tunza Mtoto Coalition criticized him over a corruption scandal at City Hall. They claimed millions of shillings had been paid for services that were never provided. This has deepened the financial struggles of Nairobians already facing high living costs.

Muthoni Ouko, executive director of the coalition, urged Sakaja to follow Chapter Six of the Constitution, which outlines leadership and integrity.

She demanded a public statement on the scandal and called for Sakaja’s full cooperation with investigators.

Questions about Sakaja’s academic qualifications have also emerged.

Adding fuel to the fire, questions surrounding Sakaja’s academic qualifications have resurfaced, with many doubting the legitimacy of his degree from the obscure Team University.

Critics argue that Sakaja’s educational background is as dubious as his governance, further undermining his credibility.

Following Sakaja’s abrupt removal from the presidential jet, speculation swirls about a potential political alliance between Ruto and Raila aiming to replace him with a more compliant candidate.

One contender emerging is Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. As a young and dynamic politician, he could pose a significant challenge to Sakaja in the 2027 elections.

With Ruto and Raila now wielding power, they likely have strategies in place to ensure Nairobi is led by someone they can control.

As Sakaja’s political future hangs in the balance, some suggest that a cabinet secretary (CS) position could be offered as a consolation prize—a graceful exit from the Nairobi gubernatorial seat that has proven too hot to handle.