It like history is repeating itself in Nairobi County politics,Governor Mike Sonko opposed to ex-Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero when he tried to ban matatus from accessing the CBD,now its his turn.
Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja has launched 100 buses to serve Nairobians commute from the various designated terminals to the central business district.
In a statement via his social media, Sakaja who has openly expressed his stated that the buses would be used to help those who were physically challenged to walk long distances.
The law maker took to his facebook page to announce the launch to help commuters access the CBD
“Watu wangu wa Nairobi leo kuanzia saa mbili asubuhi wamama wajawazito wote, wazee, walemavu na watoto nimetoa basi mia moja (100) kuwapeleka kutoka muthurwa na fig tree mpaka town ndani.”Wrote Sakaja
He added that he would not let residents suffer assuring that the matter of the ban would be dealt with.
“Mambo lazima ifanywe kwa mpangilio sio hivi hivi. (Things must be well thought out, not by impulse)”
Calls to the Senator seeking clarification on the initiative went unanswered.
On Sunday, Sakaja urged the county government to be cognizant of the effects of the ill-advised decision by explaining that the new regulations punished the commuters more than the matatu operators.
However earlier on Tuesday, however, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko suspended the matatu ban stating that there was a need for more consultation.
“I have noted with deep concern the plight of Nairobi residents as a result of the ban, and hereby announce that the full implementation of this directive has been suspended with immediate effect,” the statement read in part.
Nairobi County boss disclosed that various stakeholders had been consulted before the ban was effected but the matatu sector had refused to put their house in order.He also warned various leaders from politicising the move.
Adding that his government was going to fix the city’s chaotic transport sector and those who wanted to act as governor should wait for their time to do their part.
Sakaja filed a lawsuit at the High Court to suspend the ban against Public Service Vehicles entering the city centre.
However, the High Court declined to suspend the ban on matatus from accessing the Nairobi Central Business District, in the suit filed by 21 Saccos.
Justice Pauline Nyamweya has now scheduled the hearing for Thursday when the Nairobi County Government will be required to defend itself.
The Saccos accused City Hall of failing to seek their views before effecting the ban, which they say will not only hurt commuters but the economy as well.