President Uhuru Kenyatta has demanded answers following the low turn-out of people at the Kasarani Stadium during Jamhuri Day celebrations.
Speaking from State House on Wednesday, the President tasked Jubilee party Members of Parliament to explain the embarrassing turn-out that has formed discussions for Kenyans over the week.
The MPs assigned blame to Ministry of Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho accusing the PS of failing to mobilise citizens to attend the State function.
Interior Ministry spokesperson, in turn, pointed the accusing finger at the Nairobi regional coordinator stating that he is the best person to answer such queries.
[caption caption="File image of Kasarani Stadium during 2017 Jamhuri Day celebrations "]
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"Offices of the regional and county commissioners are usually responsible for organising State events in their areas of jurisdiction.
"During national day celebrations, the government depends on them to mobilise the people to attend. They would also organise troupes to perform and entertain guests during the celebrations," Mr Njoka told reporters.
Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko shifted the blame to the provincial administration classifying the event as having been a State function and not a political rally.
"Jamhuri Day is a national event and not a political one; hence, we cannot be involved since it is usually organised by the provincial administration — from the regional coordinators, county commissioners and chiefs," Governor Sonko stated.
His sentiments were shared by Senator Johnson Sakaja who added that the turnout could have been boosted had the authorities involved politicians.
"In as much as Jamhuri Day and other public holidays are State functions, it is advisable to involve and liaise with the political leadership of the city in coordination and mobilisation so as to avoid such poor attendance," the Senator advised.
President Kenyatta, who is the Jubilee party leader, heard the various explanations during a parliamentary group meeting organised at State House on Wednesday.
[caption caption="President Uhuru Kenyatta during the Jubilee parliamentary group meeting held at State House on December 13"]
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