Sonko Rescue Team Will Continue Operations Despite Deregistration Threat, Ex-Governor Insists

0
27
Sonko Rescue Team distributing foodstuffs.

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has reassured the public that the Sonko Rescue Team (SRT) will remain operational despite facing a deregistration threat.

The Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) recently announced plans to cancel the registration certificates of 2,802 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including SRT and the Sakaja Foundation, associated with current Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.

The affected organizations have been given 15 days to meet compliance requirements.

Sonko, however, emphasized that his organization is open to discussions with the PBORA to address any regulatory concerns and ensure alignment with the new regulations.

He expressed no opposition to the government’s move but called for dialogue to prevent job losses.

“I assure Kenyans that SRT will continue operating. We are law-abiding and ready to meet with the regulator to discuss the necessary steps,” Sonko stated.

The initiative, launched to provide emergency services and social support across Nairobi, offers services such as ambulance assistance, firefighting, clean water distribution, and aid to the underprivileged.

It is privately funded and operates in tandem with government services.

Sonko further highlighted the importance of considering the impact on young people employed by these NGOs and urged the regulator to allow more time and flexibility for organizations to comply.

“No one wants to lose their jobs, and we certainly don’t want to default unintentionally. The regulator should provide more time and possibly amnesty for full compliance,” he added.

A Gazette notice issued by PBORA CEO Lindon Nicolas revealed that these NGOs had violated certain licensing terms.

The authority, established following the operationalization of the Public Benefit Organizations Act (PBO Act) in May, is tasked with overseeing NGO registration, compliance, and advising the government on their role in national development.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, SRT earned praise for its widespread food distribution efforts, benefiting thousands of Kenyans both within and outside Nairobi.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.