Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has dismissed claims of a power struggle between himself and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over leadership of the UDA party in Nairobi County.
In a statement on Thursday, Sakaja expressed his displeasure at dragging the Deputy President’s name into the issue of UDA party leadership.
The Governor emphasized that there is no basis for any conflict between himself and Gachagua.
He reiterated his respect for the Deputy President, acknowledging Gachagua’s seniority both in life and politics.
“We need to sit down and agree on how to strengthen the party. I am disappointed that some are trying to involve the Deputy President in the Nairobi UDA leadership issue. Why are we fighting? I have no ambition to become Deputy President, and I don’t believe he wants to be Nairobi’s governor either,” Sakaja stated during an interview on Inooro TV.
Sakaja also addressed rumors of a potential split within the ruling UDA party regarding the next chairperson for Nairobi County.
While Sakaja has declared his intention to vie for the chairmanship, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya reportedly has the support of the Deputy President.
Last week, Sakaja formally announced his candidacy for the UDA chairmanship in Nairobi.
During a meeting with UDA-affiliated County Assembly members on Friday, Sakaja reiterated his commitment to running for the position.
“I want to make it clear; I am running for the Nairobi chairmanship position in the United Democratic Alliance party,” Sakaja affirmed.
This meeting took place ahead of the grassroots elections scheduled to commence on Friday.
