Johnson Arthur Sakaja CBS (born 2 February 1985) is a Kenyan politician serving as the governor of Nairobi City County since 25 August 2022. Previously, he served as the Senator of Nairobi from 2017 to 2022, and as a nominated Member of the National Assembly from 2013 to 2017. He was nominated to Parliament by The National Alliance (TNA) party which was part of the ruling Jubilee Coalition (now Jubilee Party).[ He was the National Chairman of The National Alliance (TNA) until 9 September 2016 when the party merged with 12 others to form the Jubilee Party
Early Life and Background
Johnson Arthur Sakaja CBS, born on February 2, 1985, is a prominent Kenyan politician currently serving as the Governor of Nairobi City County. He assumed office on August 25, 2022, after a career marked by significant milestones in both legislative and executive roles. A figure of inspiration and controversy, Sakaja’s journey reflects his determination to shape Kenya’s political and social landscape.
Education and Student Leadership
Sakaja attended Team University, where he served as Chairman of the Student Organisation of Team University (SOTU). However, questions about his academic qualifications have often shadowed his political career. While he claimed to have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science from the University of Nairobi, this assertion was later contested. He presented a degree in Management from Team University in Uganda, a qualification upheld by the Kenyan High Court despite initial revocation by the Commission for University Education.
Political Career
Rise to Prominence
Sakaja’s political career began in earnest after Kenya’s 2008 post-election crisis, where he contributed to formulating the 2010 Constitution. At the young age of 26, he co-founded The National Alliance (TNA), serving as its National Chairman. Under his leadership, TNA propelled Uhuru Kenyatta to the presidency in 2013.
Legislative Achievements
As a nominated Member of the National Assembly (2013–2017), Sakaja represented TNA and later the Jubilee Coalition. He played a pivotal role on several committees, including the Joint Committee on National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity. Sakaja also chaired the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association, advocating for youth empowerment and mentorship.
During his tenure, he sponsored transformative legislation such as:
- Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act (2015): Allocated 30% of government procurement opportunities to youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
- National Youth Employment Authority Bill: Created a framework for jobseekers to access employment locally and internationally.
- Private Security Regulation Bill: Established cooperation between private security firms and national security agencies.
- Disaster Risk Management Bill: Enhanced preparedness and response to emergencies.
Nairobi Senator (2017–2022)
In 2017, Sakaja was elected Senator of Nairobi County. He oversaw revenue allocation and legislative oversight, chaired the Committee on Labour and Social Welfare, and co-authored a book on fiscal decentralization. His work as Senator solidified his reputation as a proactive leader.
Governor of Nairobi (2022–Present)
In 2022, Sakaja won the Nairobi gubernatorial race with 699,392 votes, defeating Jubilee Party’s Polycarp Igathe. Sworn in alongside his deputy, James Njoroge Muchiri, Sakaja took office to address Nairobi’s pressing urban challenges, with President William Ruto in attendance at the inauguration.
Awards and Recognition
Sakaja’s contributions have earned him accolades such as:
- African Achievers Award (2016): Recognized as the Change-maker of the Year.
- Jacob Well Award: Honored for “Men Impacting Differently.”
Associations and Memberships
Sakaja is an influential figure in various organizations, including:
- Chairman, Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association.
- Patron, AFC Leopards Football Club and Kenya Professional Boxing Commission.
- Vice Chairman, Committee on National Security, Defense, and Foreign Relations.
- Executive Member, Kenya National Private Security Workers Union.
Controversies
Degree Allegations
Sakaja’s academic journey has faced scrutiny. The University of Nairobi confirmed he had not graduated, leading to debates over his Team University degree. The High Court eventually validated his qualifications.
KEMSA Scandal
In December 2020, Sakaja was implicated in the Ksh. 7.8 billion KEMSA scandal, accused of influencing procurement decisions and receiving kickbacks. While the allegations have not been conclusively proven, they remain a blemish on his record.
Legacy and Outlook
Johnson Sakaja’s political career is a testament to his resilience and ability to navigate Kenya’s dynamic political arena. From spearheading youth empowerment to governing Nairobi, he remains a polarizing figure, praised for his legislative achievements and critiqued for controversies. As Governor, Sakaja holds the ambitious task of steering Nairobi toward greater growth and equity while managing the weight of his past and the expectations of its citizens.
