This archive report was first published on 26 July 2019.
On July 26, 2019, Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria publicly opposed a plan to elevate Nakuru town into city status, calling for further consultations on the matter.
Gikaria clashed with Nakuru Deputy Governor Eric Korir over the proposal, accusing the County Government of rushing the implementation without input from residents.
He warned that if the proposal is implemented, residents will bear the cost, with rent, licenses, and land rates expected to increase.
Gikaria emphasized the need for more consultations on whether the County is ready for city status, citing concerns over the impact on his constituents.
Deputy Governor Korir, however, differed with the MP, accusing him of misleading locals on the city status drive.
Korir brushed off claims that house rent and other taxes would increase, saying there have been misconceptions about the proposal.
He called on leaders to support the County Government's development agenda, stating that once Nakuru attains city status, its allocation from the National Government will increase.