Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has highlighted two key factors that could lead to the collapse of the cooperation agreement signed between Nairobi County and the national government on February 17, 2026.
Speaking to the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations on Thursday, Sakaja reaffirmed his support for the pact but cautioned that it could only fail if residents reject it during ongoing public participation or if the Senate introduces major amendments.
“If the public rejects the agreement, we can make revisions, including clarifying all clauses,” Sakaja said, stressing the importance of citizen feedback.
He also pointed out that the deal could be rendered unnecessary if the Senate increases the county’s funding substantially. “The capital’s transformation hinges on this provision, unless you allocate an extra Ksh80–100 billion directly. Otherwise, this pact is essential,” he added.
The Senate queried why the agreement was signed before public participation. Sakaja explained that a tangible document was needed for the public to review and discuss, while also seeking the Senate’s guidance on the matter.
The cooperation agreement, aimed at boosting social and economic development in Nairobi, initially promised Ksh80 billion for county projects. Its implementation has since been temporarily paused by the courts.
At the committee meeting, Sakaja defended the pact as a critical funding mechanism, emphasizing that county responsibilities remain unchanged. He urged the Senate to propose an alternative method for mobilizing resources if they disagreed with the current arrangement, framing the agreement as a vital step toward transforming the capital.
“Answer these specific questions,” Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna corners Governor Sakaja over the legality of transferring his powers to the National Government. pic.twitter.com/IRPnWyj50J
— The Kenyan Vigilante (@KenyanSays) February 26, 2026