Irungu Nyakera, Nairobi DCP patron and former chairman of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) board, has sharply criticised Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja over what he describes as a deteriorating law and order situation in the capital.

Nyakera’s comments, shared on his X account on Monday, August 25, 2025, paint a picture of a city under strain, where leadership and security are being undermined.

“Sakaja, Nairobi is collapsing into lawlessness under your watch. Instead of protecting business people, you have repeatedly brought in hired goons whenever leadership is required,” Nyakera said. He further stated that staged demonstrations are being used to manipulate public perception.

“Yesterday, you even had them chant ‘Wantam’ to disguise them as opposition. Kenyans are not blind; we see through it,” he added.

Nyakera’s criticism comes against the backdrop of mounting concerns, particularly during demonstrations, where rising insecurity and disruptions have increasingly affected trade and investment. According to Nyakera, the governor’s tactics risk turning the city into a hub of chaos rather than a model of urban development.

Nairobi vs. Global Cities

Nyakera compared Sakaja’s approach to leadership with other global cities, warning that the current trajectory threatens Nairobi’s aspirations.

“We will not build Nairobi into a London or New York with such tactics. Instead, you are turning it into Haiti,” he said, highlighting the stark contrast between Nairobi’s potential and the current governance style.

The former KICC board chairman urged the governor to focus on his manifesto and prioritise effective governance over political theatrics. Nyakera emphasised that the business community, already counting losses, deserves better leadership.

“Focus on your manifesto, stop the gangsterism, and apologise to the business people now counting losses from your immaturity and mismanagement,” he said.

Call for Accountability

Nyakera’s statement is not just a critique but also a call for accountability, urging leaders to uphold law and order while respecting the rights of citizens and investors. He highlighted that the city’s growth depends on stable governance and protection of businesses, warning that continued mismanagement could erode Nairobi’s economic foundations.

The DCP Party Patron’s remarks have sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many Kenyans expressing frustration over security lapses and governance concerns in the capital. Observers say that as Nairobi continues to expand, leadership decisions will be increasingly scrutinised by residents and the business community alike.