Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has clarified his decision to miss a Senate Energy Committee summons, citing travel commitments as the primary reason. Sakaja defended his rescheduling, noting that the Senate acknowledges valid reasons for such changes, including travel constraints. He highlighted that the Senate has previously adjourned summons for others due to similar reasons.
“It is essential to understand that rescheduling appearances is not uncommon, and the Senate has accommodated such changes before, acknowledging reasons like travel, health issues, or prior official commitments,” Sakaja explained.
Emphasizing his respect for the Senate’s constitutional mandate, Sakaja expressed his willingness to address all queries, including those regarding the Embakasi gas explosion and audits for financial years 2020 to 2022.
“I have consistently cooperated with the Senate and remain ready to respond to any questions raised, be it regarding the Mradi gas explosion or the financial audits. Sensationalizing rescheduling undermines the Senate’s credibility, especially when many others have had their appearances postponed for similar reasons,” Sakaja stated.
Sakaja’s remarks followed a Ksh.500,000 fine imposed on him for missing a summons related to the Embakasi gas explosion, which occurred on February 2, resulting in six deaths and over 200 injuries. Additionally, he was summoned by the County Public Accounts and Investments Committee (CPAIC) on April 8 to account for Ksh.76 billion spent over four consecutive financial years from 2019 to 2023, although he did not attend.
