The recent death of Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve Kimanzi has left many Nairobians in deep pain and reflection. While the county assembly mourns his passing, questions must be asked serious questions about what kind of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is running. Munuve was not just another MCA.
He was one of the few leaders who spoke out against land grabbing in Nairobi, even when the political climate made it dangerous to do so. His death comes at a time when many are already questioning the state of leadership in the city.Munuve was known for standing firm on issues of public land.
He raised concerns about how county property in places like Landhies Road and Industrial Area was being sold off or allocated to private developers. He didn’t keep quiet when he saw public resources being misused.
He took action, writing letters, demanding accountability, and calling out officials involved. He was a voice for the people, especially the forgotten ones in Kariobangi North, who often don’t get proper services or fair representation.
It is shocking that while Munuve was raising these issues, the Sakaja-led county government remained mostly silent. Even now, as tributes pour in, there is a sense of hypocrisy. The same leaders who ignored or even worked against Munuve’s calls for accountability are now offering empty condolences.
It raises the question what exactly did Sakaja do to support Munuve’s fight? Where was his voice when Munuve was warning about illegal land allocations?
Governor Sakaja has spoken many times about transforming Nairobi, but many residents feel that under his watch, things have gotten worse. Garbage is piling up, roads are broken, and essential services are unreliable.
Now we see that even MCAs like Munuve, who tried to stand up for the people, were isolated and unsupported. If someone like Munuve could not get the backing of the county government while fighting for public land, then who is Sakaja really serving?
This moment should not be wasted on soft words and ceremonial speeches. Nairobi has lost a fighter. A leader who cared. Munuve’s legacy should be a wake-up call for Nairobians to demand more from their leaders.
Governor Sakaja must be held accountable for how public land is handled and whether whistleblowers like Munuve are protected or abandoned.
The city cannot continue to be a playground for the rich while the poor are pushed further into hardship. If Sakaja truly wants to honour Munuve, he must act on the issues the late MCA raised. Otherwise, his silence will only prove that Nairobi’s leadership is more interested in protecting deals than protecting the people.
Add Comment