Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu’s remarks about the ongoing demolition of buildings on riparian land in Nairobi are likely to put him at loggerheads with President Uhuru Kenyatta, political analyst Peter Ngure has said.
Ngure argues that Waititu's move to oppose the demolitions that have been approved by the President may work against him politically.
Ngure said while Waititu has a right to an opinion, his remarks that came at a time when the Head of State is committed to fighting impunity will backfire on him.
He said that the county boss is likely to be seen as a rebellious leader, adding that the move might cause him to lose the trust of Kiambu people.
“The ongoing demolitions are as a result of an executive order and Waititu remarks could be interpreted as being rebellious to the president,” said Ngure.
He further argued that the ongoing demolitions are likely to turn political after Waititu’s outburst.
“The effect of Waititu’s remarks opposing an executive order may not be felt now but will haunt him in future,” he said.
The analyst stated that many politicians who have opposed executive orders in the past never make it far.
On Sunday, Governor Waititu opposed the ongoing demolitions saying they are hurting investors.
Governor Waititu called for the diversion of rivers instead of the demolition of multi-million buildings.
This came after President Kenyatta revealed he has lost many friends as a result of the demolitions.
Kenyatta, however, maintained that the demolitions will go on even if it means that he will have no friends.
Several buildings were demolished last week in Nairobi among them the Ukay center in Westlands and the Southend mall on Langata road.
Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has since warned Waittitu to keep off the city's affairs.
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