Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has since stated that CORD leaders will be at the venue for their parallel rally/FILE
NAIROBI, Kenya, May 30 – The Nairobi County Government says CORD has the right to use Uhuru Park on Madaraka Day since they paid and got necessary approval and not the religious group laying similar claim.
In a statement, County Secretary Robert Ayisi pointed out that even though Evangelist Lucy Wa Ngunjiri of the Prayer Beyond Boundaries Ministries had already paid for the venue, she needed to get approval first before using Uhuru Park.
He stated that CORD on the other hand sought approval for the use of the grounds and paid necessary funds on the same day.
“Prayers Beyond Boundaries Ministries paid the Nairobi City County Government without prior approval. Nairobi City County government is the sole custodian and trustee of Uhuru Park grounds therefore the county has the right to approve or decline any request for the use of its facilities,” he stated.
He indicated that it is CORD’s approval which is valid and effective.
“The Nairobi City County Government would like to clarify on the above issue. We received a letter of request for use of Uhuru Park by CORD vide a letter dated 22nd May 2016 and received on 25th May 2016 to which we consented to on the same day,” he said.
Nairobi Police boss Japheth Koome had stated that the evangelist had already paid for the venue and therefore had the right to it.
He had stated that police will provide enough security to ensure the religious function that kicks off on Tuesday, a day to the celebrations, goes well uninterrupted.
Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has since stated that CORD leaders will be at the venue for their parallel rally.
The church event on its part has since printed poster inviting Kenyans to attend the prayers.
“I have written to CORD over the same. They will have to look for an alternative venue,” Koome had told Capital FM News.
Koome’s letter reads: “Your notification of participation on Madaraka Day at the same venue is therefore not approved.”
CORD had said that they wanted to celebrate, “civil liberties, freedoms and reaffirm the quest for constitutionalism in Kenya.”
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