Nairobi MCA Faces Bribery Claims Over Kileleshwa Billboard Permits

Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai is facing serious corruption allegations after activist Maverick Aoko accused him of demanding KSh 500,000 from a local businessman in exchange for permission to erect billboards in the upscale Nairobi neighborhood.

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The Allegations

Aoko, known for her outspoken activism on social media, made the claims public by sharing what she described as evidence including M-Pesa transaction screenshots and an audio recording allegedly linking Alai to the demanded payment. According to Aoko, the money was solicited from a businessman identified as Adan, who sought to install advertising billboards within Kileleshwa’s jurisdiction.

The activist’s allegations have sparked intense debate on social media platforms, with users questioning the integrity of urban planning enforcement mechanisms and the role of elected officials in regulating commercial advertising structures.

Alai’s Response

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), MCA Alai categorically denied the accusations, dismissing them as unfounded. In his statement, he announced immediate action against unauthorized advertising structures in his constituency, confirming the removal of four illegal billboards.

“I have ordered the removal of four illegal billboards and am working closely with county officials to address all unauthorized structures in Kileleshwa,” Alai stated, emphasizing his commitment to proper urban planning regulations.

The MCA also indicated that he has held meetings with Nairobi County government officials to develop a comprehensive strategy for managing advertising infrastructure within legal frameworks.

Broader Implications

The controversy has reignited conversations about corruption in Kenya’s outdoor advertising sector, an industry worth millions of shillings annually. Urban advertising enforcement has long been criticized for inconsistent application of regulations, with allegations of bribery and favoritism frequently surfacing.

Kileleshwa, one of Nairobi’s middle-class residential areas, has experienced rapid commercial development in recent years, making billboard placement increasingly lucrative and contentious.

No Official Investigation Yet

As of now, no formal investigation has been launched by either the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) or the Nairobi County Assembly into the allegations against MCA Alai. Legal experts note that the matter would require official complaints and verification of the purported evidence before any investigative process can commence.

The case highlights ongoing challenges in governance and accountability within Kenya’s devolved government system, where county officials wield significant authority over local business operations and urban development.

Both Aoko and Alai have substantial social media followings, ensuring that developments in this case will continue to attract public attention and scrutiny.

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