A section of Nairobi Members of County Assembly (MCAs) has called for a comprehensive investigation into senior county officials following the arrest and questioning of Nairobi Chief Officer for Urban Planning Patrick Analo.
The calls come after detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) raided Analo’s residence in Syokimau on Thursday morning as part of an ongoing corruption investigation. During the operation, investigators reportedly recovered large sums of cash and several documents linked to the probe.
Led by Korogocho Ward MCA Absalom Odhiambo, popularly known as Matach, the legislators said the latest developments pointed to deeper governance and accountability concerns within Nairobi County’s executive arm.
Speaking to the press, Matach questioned how a public officer could allegedly possess such large amounts of cash concealed in various locations within a private residence at a time when many Nairobi residents continue to struggle with the high cost of living.
“Nairobians are suffering through difficult economic times. It raises serious questions when one individual is found with such huge amounts of money allegedly hidden under beds, in ceilings, inside vehicles and other parts of a house. As MCAs, we shall be thorough when the Assembly resumes from recess because Nairobi residents deserve answers,” said Matach.
According to the anti-graft agency, the operation forms part of investigations into alleged conflict of interest, abuse of office, bribery and possession of assets suspected to be disproportionate to known sources of income.
Ngei Ward MCA Redson Onyango linked the ongoing probe to concerns that have long been raised regarding approvals of buildings within the city.
He argued that irregular approvals and weak enforcement of planning regulations have contributed to the collapse of buildings in Nairobi over the years, resulting in injuries and loss of life.
“Illegal approvals driven by kickbacks have contributed to building collapses witnessed in recent years. The problem begins within the urban planning sector. We welcome investigations and believe anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with the law,” Onyango said.
The MCA further called on investigative agencies to widen the scope of investigations to include other officials involved in the approval chain for development projects within the county.
The arrest has renewed scrutiny on Nairobi County’s urban planning department, which plays a key role in approving construction projects and enforcing development regulations within the capital.
EACC officials said documents recovered during the search operation, including property records, approval plans and electronic devices, would form part of the evidence being examined by investigators.
As investigations continue, the MCAs have urged anti-corruption agencies to pursue all leads without fear or favour and ensure that public resources are protected.
