Two prominent leaders in the Nairobi County Assembly, Majority Leader Moses Ogeto and Education Committee Chairperson Perpetua Mponjiwa Okello, are facing possible removal from their positions. Sources close to City Hall indicate that the move is aimed at punishing them for their continued support of Senator Edwin Sifuna, despite being nominated and elected under the ODM party in the 2022 general elections.
Ogeto, who represents the Kilimani ward in the Dagoretti North constituency, has been a close ally of ODM founder Raila Odinga and has served in the assembly since 2013. Mponjiwa, on the other hand, is the chairperson of the Education Committee and has expressed interest in vying for the Kileleshwa ward seat currently held by ODM's Robert Alai. Both leaders are accused of supporting Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi Movement (LMM), which is seen as a threat to ODM's interests.
According to sources, a report has been prepared and may be presented to the assembly at any moment, seeking to remove Ogeto and Mponjiwa from their positions. Ogeto confirmed that he had been informed of the plans to remove him but claimed that ODM had deviated from its founding principles, prioritizing politicians' interests over those of the people.
Ogeto expressed no fear of losing his position, citing his strong relationship with the residents of Kilimani ward. If removed, his position as Majority Leader is expected to be taken over by his deputy, Stazo Omung'ala Elija Ang'ila, who represents the Upper Savannah ward. Efforts to obtain comments from the Leader of Majority in the Nairobi County Assembly, Peter Imwatok, were unsuccessful.
The possible removal of Ogeto and Mponjiwa has sparked concerns about the future of the LMM and its influence within the assembly. Sifuna's movement has gained significant traction, particularly among Nairobi residents, who are seeking change and good governance. The ODM party has been accused of attempting to silence dissenting voices and maintain its grip on power.
Ogeto revealed that he is eyeing the Dagoretti North parliamentary seat currently held by ODM's Beatrice Elachi and is confident of winning due to his strong connection with the residents. The developments in the Nairobi County Assembly are being closely watched, as they may have implications for the future of the ODM party and the LMM.
The situation may also affect the balance of power within the assembly, with some leaders reportedly considering a shift in allegiance. As the scenario unfolds, stakeholders are eagerly waiting to see how the matters will be resolved and what the eventual outcome will be for the two leaders and the assembly at large.
Key points
- Two Nairobi County Assembly leaders face possible removal over alleged loyalty to Senator Edwin Sifuna
- ODM party accused of attempting to silence dissenting voices and maintain grip on power
- Possible removal may have implications for balance of power within the assembly
