“I’ve Never Sponsored Violence,” Declares Governor Sakaja as He Blames Political Enemies for Nairobi Chaos

 

Nairobi, June 17, 2025. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has strongly denied allegations that connect him to the violence and chaos that erupted in the capital during Monday’s demonstrations. In a passionate statement at City Hall, Sakaja dismissed claims of orchestrating goon infiltration as “malicious propaganda.” He accused his political enemies of using the tragic events for their own benefit.

“Let me be clear. I have never and will never sponsorviolence. Anyone trying to link me to what happened in Nairobi is simplypushing a political agenda,” Sakaja told journalists. “These are well-craftedlies by individuals who fear accountability and progress.”

 His statement follows a protest that turned violent in Nairobi’s Central Business District. What started as a peaceful march demanding justice for Albert Ojwang, the blogger who died in police custody, devolved into chaos when armed goons hijacked the protest. This led to deaths, injuries, looting, and wide-scale property destruction.

In the fallout, accusations arose on social media and political platforms, suggesting that the chaos was state-enabled or politically sponsored, with some commentators and rival political figures mentioning Sakaja's name.

Sakaja claimed he has become the focus of a calculated smear campaign.

“These enemies of Nairobi's peace want to derail our efforts to clean up the city, empower the youth, and restore dignity to leadership. But I will not be intimidated,” he added.

He called for investigators to act quickly, stating that the infiltration of the protest by violent groups was “a national security concern” and should not be politicized.

The governor challenged his accusers to provide solid evidence linking him to the violence. He stated that “cheap political stunts” should not overshadow the quest for justice for Ojwang and the vendor who was shot.

“Let us focus on facts. Let us mourn the dead and seekjustice—not politicize pain,” Sakaja said.

Observers suggest that the accusations may stem from rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections. Sakaja is becoming a significant figure in Nairobi and national politics and has been seen as a potential candidate for higher office, making him a likely target for rivals.

Analysts believe that the unrest in the city, coupled with accusations of mismanagement or complicity, could be part of a broader strategy to undermine his position.

Sakaja ended his remarks with a call for calm. He urged all leaders, regardless of party or affiliation, to unite in condemning violence and supporting lawful protests.

“We must let Nairobi heal. We must stop pointing fingers and start asking the right questions: Who is killing our youth? Who benefits from chaos?”

As investigations into the Nairobi protests continue, Governor Sakaja’s name may remain in the news. However, his firm denial and passionate rhetoric demonstrate a willingness to fight both legally and politically. Whether his claims of political sabotage are valid will depend on the evidence and developments in the coming days.