Gakuya: Sakaja Safe With Raila’s Support
Gakuya ended by warning that results in both county assemblies and in the Senate are typically determined by forces beyond the chambers.
Gakuya used past instances to illustrate himself. He mentioned governors like Kawira Mwangaza, who had been through several impeachments at the county level but still remained until the Senate acted. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064363642451
By Juliet Jerotich
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya has debunked claims that Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja would be impeached with ease. He asserted Sakaja’s strong political ties, especially his personal relationship with ODM leader Raila Odinga, make any plan to oust him futile.
Speaking on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, during a local television interview, Gakuya explained how impeachment is carried out. He said the process begins with county assemblies but the Senate determines. According to him, the Senate usually gives governors second chances.
The assemblies initiate, but they have no say. That is left to the Senate. In most cases, governors get another bite in the same league,” he said.
Gakuya used past instances to illustrate himself. He mentioned governors like Kawira Mwangaza, who had been through several impeachments at the county level but still remained until the Senate acted. He noted that impeachment is a cumbersome and lengthy process.
The political ambitions drive results, the legislator said. Most senators, he added, aspire to become governors in future elections and this gives lobbying the cover for safeguarding some governors. “There are many senators who wish to become governors. That interest is a big factor in how impeachment cases are resolved,” he clarified.
Gakuya further elucidated that a good defense strategy can benefit governors. Those who are endowed with resources or powerful allies are able to withstand pressure. He further mentioned Sakaja has never been without the backing of Raila Odinga, which has protected him from losing office.
“Sakaja can struggle in the county assembly but he survives in the Senate. His good relationship with Raila ensures he is always supported,” said Gakuya.
He also claimed that Nairobi MCAs have already collected more than the two-thirds required to bring the impeachment motion to the floor. Moreover, he continued to hold that Sakaja would most likely escape at the Senate level because of external influence.
Gakuya ended by warning that results in both county assemblies and in the Senate are typically determined by forces beyond the chambers. “The executive and political heavyweights continue to determine outcomes,” he said.
At the same time, Nairobi Governor Sakaja is also coming under mounting political pressure. MCAs led by Kileleshwa’s Robert Alai have finished drafting a motion to impeach him. They accuse him of mismanagement and selling critical healthcare services. The motion lists over 20 counts and has the backing of more than 100 MCAs.
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