Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has countered Defence Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale’s order on use of Uhuru Park and Central Park.

Governor Sakaja was speaking today (Thursday) during 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 disclosed that there were initial plans to have people pay some cash to access the park, but he had a change of heart after listening to CS Duale reminisce his campus days when he visited the park daily during lunchtime hours.

The Nairobi County boss however maintained that there were staff members and security measures put in place to ensure Kenyans accessing the park observe rules in efforts 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.”

As for Central park, Sakaja announced plans to have Kenyans pay for access in some sections in a bid 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.

He declared that it would be a collaboration with the private sector.