Sakaja seeks prosecutorial powers after South C building collapse
Sakaja said counties are often left powerless after taking enforcement action, as cases against developers stall once they reach the prosecution stage...
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Following the collapse of a 14-storey building in South C, Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has renewed calls for county governments to regain prosecutorial powers. He argues this is crucial for curbing rogue developers and enforcing building regulations, as cases against violators often stall in prosecution despite county enforcement actions.
- The collapsed building was reportedly flagged multiple times for violations by Nairobi City County enforcement teams, dating back to May 2025.
- Governor Sakaja stated that some developers sideline qualified professionals for cheaper, unqualified alternatives, leading to unsafe structures.
- City Hall has blamed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for declining to prefer charges, allowing construction to continue despite infractions.
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Authorities Investigate and Seek Powers After South C Building Collapse - January 2026
Following the collapse of a 16-storey building in South C, Nairobi, on January 2, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions gave Inspector General of Police Dougas Kanja a seven-day deadline to investigate. Investigations revealed the structure, which had been flagged multiple times, grossly violated approved building plans. The government has hinted at the potential deregistration of the architect if they are deemed criminally liable. The incident prompted Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson to renew calls for county governments to regain prosecutorial powers to curb rogue developers. The collapse has highlighted issues of professional negligence and substandard practices in Kenya's construction industry.
