Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, on Tuesday, May 16, warned county officials against using new county cars to harass traders as was witnessed in the past.
Speaking during the launch of 19 brand-new vehicles, the governor indicated that the vehicles were to be used for the delivery of services and enforcement of county policies.
The county boss was making reference to complaints by Kenyans who lamented over the old cars that were used to arrest traders and other citizens within the Central Business District (CBD).
"These vehicles are for serving the people of Nairobi and not to harass. We must treat the people of this city with dignity and utmost respect," he expressed.
Sakaja also cautioned officials against using the vehicles to run personal errands warning that action would be taken against the individual officers.
“These vehicles are not for individual’s luxury and comfort. They are meant to serve the people of Nairobi. One of the things we promised when we came into office is to address the issue of dilapidated vehicles in the county. We are doing so in phases," the county boss asserted.
On the other hand, he noted that they would completely face out the old vehicles over time admitting that various departments were earmarked to receive the vehicles.
Some of the departments include health, environment, and revenue.
The governor intimated that his administration was able to purchase the vehicles after improving revenue collection by Ksh1.5 billion.
Following the launch of vehicles, city residents commended the governor for the changes even as they called for more investment in the new vehicles as they cited health concerns posed by the old vehicles.
"Now create a driver opportunity for the youth who have experience and driving license since they know Nairobi better than the people who spend time to work," Mark Osumba commented.
"These vehicles were about to cause tetanus in the city. They should be removed completely. They were dangerous," Teddy Kimani added.
