Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has responded to Defence Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale's order regarding the use of Uhuru and Central Parks.Governor Sakaja spoke today, Thursday, at the handover ceremony of Uhuru Park and Central Park to Nairobi County.
“Even if we agree waziri that Uhuru Park should not be used for political rallies, that now is the role of the county. We understand that some activities if you bring them to Uhuru Park, like some of these benches they will be stolen,” he explained.
The former senator however stated he would allow religious events to take place at Uhuru Park.
“When we are touched by the Holy Spirit we might decide to hold a crusade here, or prayers.”
Sakaja revealed that there were initial plans to charge people to enter the park, but he changed his mind after hearing CS Duale reminisce about his campus days, when he visited the park every day during lunchtime hours.
However, the Nairobi County boss insisted that staff members and security measures had been put in place to ensure Kenyans visiting the park followed the rules in order to preserve it.
However, the Nairobi County boss insisted that staff members and security measures had been put in place to ensure Kenyans visiting the park followed the rules in order to preserve it.
“The park is actually not free because the people of Nairobi pay for it using their taxes. When you come in we have a management system at the gates where you present your ID and CCTV cameras to monitor the area.”
Sakaja announced plans for Kenyans to pay for access to some sections of Central Park in order to raise revenue for the county.
“There are sections of Central Park that will be charged for exclusive uses. for instance there is a very beautiful field for weddings. We can agree how much it is per month. We shall bring that in the Finance Bill in the County Assembly,” he added.