Moses Kuria reacts to Ruto’s plan to introduce NMS-like agency in Nairobi
Former Economic Advisor to President William Ruto, Moses Kuria, has reacted to reports that President Ruto plans to introduce an agency similar to the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) to manage key functions of the Nairobi County Government.
Through his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Kuria said the decision shows the leadership of Governor Johnson Sakaja has failed to deliver on basic county responsibilities.
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He noted that if the national government steps in, it will be a sad but understandable move.
Also watch: Sakaja and Ruto’s plans for Nairobi.
Basic functions collapsing
Kuria remarked that while the transfer of services such as road maintenance, street lighting, and cleaning to a national agency may help restore order, it signals a deeper problem within the county’s administration.
“If the National Government takes over the three functions of lighting, roads and cleaning up Nairobi, that will be understandable but unfortunate. First, these are very basic functions. Their collapse speaks volumes,” Kuria said.
He added that the failure of these fundamental services shows a lack of seriousness in managing the city, which is not only Kenya’s capital but also the country’s economic hub.
Kuria’s remarks follow increasing public frustration over poor road conditions, uncollected garbage, and street lighting failures across Nairobi.
Many residents have complained that the city has become dirtier and less safe, raising questions about service delivery under Governor Sakaja’s administration.
Also watch: Nairobi DCP leaders condemn Ruto, Raila over interference in Sakaja impeachment
Lessons from the Jubilee era
The former Cabinet Secretary also pointed out the irony in Ruto’s proposal, reminding Kenyans that the Jubilee Government previously created the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) to take over county functions from a Jubilee-affiliated governor.
“Now, a UDA Administration will take over functions from a UDA Governor (Johnson Sakaja). What does that say about political parties and the choices they make?” Kuria posed.
He further criticised the political class for repeating mistakes instead of addressing root causes, saying Kenya needs real reform, not cosmetic fixes.
“We cannot continue giving patients Piriton where surgery is required,” he concluded.
Kuria’s statement has sparked debate online, with Kenyans expressing mixed reactions, some supporting a new NMS-like body, while others argue that it undermines devolution and accountability in county governments.
