Governor’s Restaurant Launch Sparks Outcry in Mandera County

Mandera residents and civil society groups have expressed outrage following outgoing Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif’s launch of City Max, a high-end restaurant in Nairobi’s Central Business District.

The venture has raised questions about priorities and potential misuse of public funds in a county facing significant infrastructure challenges.

According to sources within the Nairobi City County planning department, the commercial building housing Khalif’s restaurant faced potential condemnation for regulatory non-compliance.

Officials reportedly delayed issuing an occupancy certificate for an extended period, creating concerns about the establishment’s legality and safety standards.

Before entering politics, Khalif operated a bookshop. Critics now allege his attention has shifted from public service to private business ventures while essential services in Mandera deteriorate.

“Our hospitals lack basic medications, roads remain impassable, and Lafey residents continue struggling with water shortages,” said a local resident who requested anonymity.

“Meanwhile, our governor invests in luxury dining experiences outside our county.”

Compounding these concerns are allegations that Khalif has been channeling county funds to his predecessor, former Governor Ali Roba, through questionable “pending bill” payments.

While no formal investigations have commenced, watchdog organizations are urging both the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Office of the Auditor-General to examine the financial transactions associated with the restaurant.

A Nairobi activist suggested Mandera residents living in the capital should “eat for free” at City Max, implying their tax contributions may have financed the establishment.

“When mothers wait for hours in understaffed clinics without medicine, and children cross rivers to reach school, how can leaders justify investing in flashy eateries in Nairobi?” the activist questioned.

Governor Khalif’s office has not responded to requests for comment.

The controversy threatens to damage the governor’s political reputation and further erode public confidence in Mandera’s county leadership as his term comes to an end.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​