Elachi rejects claims of tribal favouritism during tenure as Nairobi Speaker
By Faith Lagat, June 20, 2025Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi has come out strongly to refute claims that she engaged in tribal favouritism during her tenure as Nairobi County Assembly Speaker, terming the accusations false and malicious.
She insists all promotions carried out under her leadership were strictly merit-based and overseen by the Public Service Board.
Speaking during an interview with local media on Friday, June 20, 2025, Elachi addressed the growing narrative that she had populated the county offices with members of her Luhya community.
“People say I employed many Luhyas. No, I did not employ anyone. I found a team in place and only subjected them to internal interviews, which were conducted by the County Public Service Board. Those who qualified were promoted based on merit,” she said.
Her statement comes against the framework of renewed online scrutiny and personal tragedy. In March this year, Elachi lost her son, Elvis Murakana, in a grisly road accident. The loss, coupled with heightened political pressure, has made her a frequent target of cyberbullying.
She has since been vocal about the dangers of online abuse, calling for the regulation of digital spaces to protect public figures and grieving families.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) had previously launched investigations into alleged irregular promotions at City Hall during her tenure, but no formal charges have been brought forward.
Elachi, who was the Nairobi County Assembly Speaker previously, resigned, citing incessant leadership wrangles at City Hall and threats on her life.
Elachi maintains that due process was followed and that no appointments were made outside the law.
Despite the backlash, Elachi appears unfazed, shifting focus to development projects in Dagoretti North. She urged Kenyans to rise above ethnic politics and instead demand accountability and service delivery.
“I believe in fairness. Our youth want jobs, better health care, and opportunities. Let’s move away from tribal lenses and focus on what truly matters,” she added.
She also spoke publicly for the first time about the pain of losing her son, Elvis Murakana, who died in a road crash in March 2025. Elachi opened up about how the tragedy has impacted her faith, family life, and political journey.