Sonko denies any claims of holding title deeds for projects involving affordable housing

According to former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, the Nairobi County Assembly and the current Nairobi government, headed by Governor Johnson Sakaja, have been deceiving the public about the situation.

Speaking to reporters Thursday from his Upperhill office, Sonko also denied recent rumors that he is the sole owner of the title deed to the Jeevanjee project.

He produced records showing that the property had been charged by the County Government and the private investor in the project in order to obtain the multibillion shilling loan.

The Nairobi County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Built Environment and Urban Planning recently informed the Planning and Housing Committee of the County Assembly that Sonko still possessed the title deed.

Alvin Palapala, a Kitisuru MCA, chaired the committee, which even contemplated calling the former governor to provide clarification.

Sonko, however, claimed that senior county officials are signatories to the loan agreement and called this a diversionary tactic.

He gave the media access to documents, such as a letter from Patrick Analo, the acting county secretary at the time, dated April 18, 2020, asking the assembly’s consent to deposit the title deed for the Pangani Estate Urban Renewal Project.

Sonko also emphasized a letter dated January 1, 2023, from the National Bank attesting to the Ksh. 1.9 billion that was paid to the private developer of the project.

The loan was approved by the bank after the property was charged, suggesting that the County Assembly gave its approval after the money had already been obtained.

In order to obtain financing, Sonko clarified, “the Nairobi Jeevanjee Estate Company Limited, a special purpose vehicle, was registered and the title was taken to the bank.”

Additionally, the former county manager cautioned about possible schemes to take advantage of the original tenants, implying that there might be a plan to turn the project over to cartels.

“All of this is propaganda meant to mislead the public. Sonko said, “Governor Sakaja should concentrate on finishing the projects without needless drama.”

Sonko went on to claim that he paid Ksh. 28.8 million to 48 homeowners at Old Pangani Estate during his tenure, which made it possible to build 1,500 affordable housing units.

According to him, Ksh. 600,000 was given to each tenant to help with their move, with the understanding that they would be given preference when the project was finished.