Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja has firmly denied allegations suggesting that he faced pressure to withdraw from the Nairobi United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party chairmanship race.
These speculations emerged following reports indicating that certain party officials had urged him to step down, a matter that Sakaja acknowledged during a recent interview.
However, Sakaja has reiterated his unwavering commitment to remain in the race, emphasizing his resilience against external influence.
During a Thursday morning interview, Sakaja reaffirmed his determination to pursue his candidacy, stating, “I’m not a leader who succumbs to pressure. If there was pressure, I would not have been governor of Nairobi.”
“I don’t easily give in to pressure. If I did, I wouldn’t have become the governor of Nairobi. As for where they think this pressure is coming from… I’ve only heard the rumors,” he stated during his interview with Inooro TV.
He further emphasized his aspiration for a united party, extending an invitation to all Nairobi residents to actively participate in the election process to bolster the party’s unity.
Sakaja officially announced his candidacy on April 19 during a meeting with UDA Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), who pledged their full support for his bid.
The governor’s candidacy precedes the party’s upcoming nationwide grassroots elections, slated to commence on April 26 and conclude on August 24.
The initial phase of the elections will encompass several counties, including Nairobi, Narok, and West-Pokot, with subsequent phases extending to more counties.
Anthony Mwaura has been appointed as the National Elections Board (NEB) chairperson, with Veronica Kiberenge serving as Vice Chairperson. Other appointed members include Lydia Munika, Jimmy Kaingi, Mary Mutinga, Halake Dida, and Linda Kiome.
Additionally, the elections are set to be conducted digitally, as confirmed by UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala.
Sakaja’s steadfast commitment to continue his candidacy underscores his dedication to the party’s objectives, despite facing external challenges.
As the elections draw nearer, all eyes will be on the Nairobi County governor’s race, with residents eagerly anticipating the final outcome.
