President William Ruto has emphasized that the national government will not assume control over Nairobi’s county administration, affirming that the city’s governance remains the responsibility of the elected county officials.
Speaking during a public function on Tuesday, Ruto sought to dismiss claims that recent discussions between the national government and Nairobi County are a handover of powers.
“What we are formalising today is not a transfer of functions. Let me repeat — there is no transfer of functions taking place,” he said.
The President added that he has no plans to take on the role of the governor, and that Nairobi’s leadership under Governor Johnson Sakaja should continue without interference.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I have no interest in running the city; my hands are already full. The Governor and his team must continue to run the city,” Ruto stated.
Still, Ruto noted that as the country’s President, he has a duty to support the functioning of the capital due to its importance on both national and international fronts.
“However, as President, I have an obligation to support and assist the capital city,” he said.
He highlighted that cooperation between the county and national governments is key to addressing Nairobi’s infrastructure gaps, improving service delivery, and enhancing security, all within the limits set by the Constitution.
The remarks come amid ongoing political discussions over how the national government should engage with the city’s management.
Governor Sakaja last week also refuted suggestions that he had ceded county powers to the national government, calling such reports a “dream.”
“Members, I honour the mandate given to me by the people of Nairobi. They entrusted me with constitutional powers to transform this city, and I will not betray that trust,” Sakaja told Nairobi MCAs.
The governor confirmed that while the national government will support some county projects, this collaboration does not mean transferring authority.
“Nairobi is not just a county but a capital city. Collaboration with the National Government is inevitable and encouraged. But, in the words of the former Prime Minister and father of devolution, Raila Odinga, we must protect devolution, the greatest gift given to the people of Kenya by our Constitution,” he said.
Sakaja added that the county is following procedures under the Urban Areas and Cities Act to enhance infrastructure support, but Nairobi will continue to operate fully as a county.
“Those who have been hoping that the misadventure under NMS will happen again in Nairobi should look for another county and find another governor. This Governor, Johnson Sakaja, shall never go in that direction,” he concluded.
