Tensions Rise in Laini Saba as Residents Threaten to Oust Chief Over Corruption Allegations

By Shadrack Nyakoe

Residents of Laini Saba are on edge as frustrations mount over alleged corruption by their area chief, whom they now threaten to remove from office by force. The chief, who has served the area for more than ten years, is accused of allowing crime to flourish by accepting bribes and protecting offenders.

John Musila Ndile, the area Member of County Assembly (MCA) and Deputy Majority Leader in Nairobi, has been vocal about the community’s grievances. Musila claims the chief has been taking bribes from individuals arrested for illegal brewing and drug use to prevent them from facing legal charges.

“For years, residents have complained to me about the worsening corruption here,” Musila, popularly known as Kaende, stated. “I have discovered that the chief has been demanding illegal fees, including Ksh. 500 for first-time national ID applications, and denying rightful beneficiaries food aid and donations for his personal gain. He only shows up to work around 2 p.m. on weekdays.”

Other community leaders echoed Musila’s concerns. Simon Shikote, a local children’s football coach, condemned the chief’s refusal to step down despite reportedly receiving an official order to vacate his position. “A letter was issued instructing the chief to leave office, yet he has ignored it. We are fed up with his actions and urge the government to intervene,” Shikote said.

Mary Mugure, a youth leader, added that the chief was recently implicated in a Ksh. 10,000 corruption case. His assistant, under mounting pressure, chose to resign, but Chief Richard Soi has held his position. “We are prepared to take matters into our own hands by physically removing the chief and securing the office with new padlocks until real change comes,” Mugure warned.

The residents’ frustrations reflect deeper concerns over corruption and security in Laini Saba, with calls for swift action to restore integrity and safety in the area.