Governor Sakaja’s approach to addressing issues in Nairobi’s Central Business District reflects a commitment to finding sustainable solutions that prioritize dialogue and understanding over the use of force.
By advocating for a system change and focusing on teaching the public, Sakaja aims to address root causes and promote harmony within the city.
The emphasis on regulatory change has contributed to reducing incidents of turmoil involving hawkers, matatu drivers, and county askaris, highlighting the effectiveness of a more people-centered approach to governance.
“You know the style of administration of Governor Sakaja has always been not to harass the mwananchi, that is why he is really opposed to this thing of rungus chasing hawkers down. We have not had any teargas with hawkers in the last one and half years neither with the matatu people,” Kerich stated.
“We sit at City Hall and they raise their issues and sometimes they realize the issues are amongst themselves… they realize it is not even a county problem so we then come in to mediate. The philosophy of helping people pay instead of chasing them down is what we are trying to pursue,” he insisted.
However, Kerich acknowledged that the policy had drawbacks that have impacted certain sections of the county.
“We will get down to serious enforcement but this thing of people being bundled into a truck that was waiting downstairs and being driven around the city all day stopped for good,” said the CEC.
Kerich’s call for the populace to reciprocate by paying land rates is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of the new policy.
Neglecting to fulfill these obligations not only undermines the financial health of the city but also jeopardizes essential services and infrastructure development.
By urging property owners to meet their responsibilities, Kerich is emphasizing the importance of civic duty and contributing to the common good.
The potential consequences, including facing auction, serve as a reminder of the seriousness of these obligations and the need for compliance to support the city’s progress.
