NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto recently hosted Nairobi County MPs at State House for a meeting centered on development, with a notable focus on the progress of Nairobi River’s rehabilitation.
Among the attendees were Embakasi North MP James Gakuya and Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru, popularly known as Mejja Donk, both vocal allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The gathering raised eyebrows amid swirling political tensions, especially as it came on the heels of recent calls for Gachagua’s impeachment.
In a brief statement shared with the press, the president emphasized that the meeting was intended to discuss Nairobi’s ongoing rehabilitation projects, urging MPs to prioritize development over politics.
“He urged them to shun politics and support projects that will improve the capital’s status,” the statement read.
This directive aims to unify Nairobi leaders on efforts that will reshape the city’s infrastructure and environment, particularly focusing on restoring Nairobi River, a long-standing issue in the city.
Gakuya and Donk’s support for Gachagua has been unwavering, as evidenced by their frequent appearances at the deputy president’s events, especially in Mt. Kenya.
While the State House meeting’s agenda was officially focused on Nairobi River, speculation remains that the ongoing impeachment discussions and political alliances could have been a subtext, particularly with these two allies present.
In a recent statement, Donk reaffirmed his loyalty to Gachagua, asserting, “No amount of intimidation will make me change my stance.”
Both MPs have faced scrutiny for their roles in recent anti-tax protests, with charges reportedly approved by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The MPs, questioned in July, have since defended their involvement, with Gakuya dismissing accusations of financing or orchestrating the protests as a “witchhunt.”
He challenged anyone with concrete evidence of misconduct to present it, stating, “These are the things they should table.”
As Nairobi leaders push forward with President Ruto’s development agenda, the complexities of their political allegiances and legal hurdles linger, underscoring the balancing act between policy and politics in Kenya’s capital.
