The outspoken legislator accused President William Ruto’s government of “auctioning national heritage in the name of development,” saying such moves betray the country’s sovereignty and disregard public interest.
According to Ole Kina, the alleged plan to lease Jamhuri Park—a symbol of Kenya’s post-independence identity and a central venue for national celebrations—reflects what he termed as “a worrying pattern of state capture by foreign interests.”
He warned that Kenya risks losing control of key public assets under the guise of economic partnerships that prioritize external powers over citizens’ welfare.
“This administration must be stopped from selling our birthright to foreign corporations. Leasing Jamhuri Park to Chinese investors is not development—it is betrayal,” Ole Kina declared.
Sen. Ledama Ole Kina further called for full disclosure of any agreements involving the use or management of the park, demanding that Parliament and the public be consulted before any decisions are made.
He urged civil society and opposition leaders to resist what he described as “a creeping economic colonization” driven by opaque deals and lack of accountability.
His remarks have reignited debate over Kenya’s growing economic dependence on China, which has funded major infrastructure projects including the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the Nairobi Expressway.
Critics argue that while Chinese investments have spurred development, they have also saddled the country with heavy debt and compromised its bargaining power.
Government officials, however, have yet to confirm or deny the claims, maintaining silence on the alleged lease arrangement.
Sources within the Ministry of Lands and the Nairobi County government have hinted that discussions are ongoing regarding the park’s redevelopment, but details remain sketchy.
Ledama Ole Kina's outburst adds to mounting political tension over asset management and foreign investment transparency under President Ruto’s administration.
But even as Kenyans demand clarity on the future of public spaces like Jamhuri Park, the controversy signals a broader struggle between economic modernization and national sovereignty—a debate that continues to define Kenya’s political and economic trajectory.
