Warning to cancel Chinese diner’s permit

Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero Monday warned he would cancel the licence of a Chinese restaurant barring Africans from accessing their premises after 5pm.

Dr Kidero who described the restriction as outdated and unacceptable, said his administration had started investigations with the help of human rights organisations and the Ombudsman, to establish if the allegations are true.

“If we find that the allegations are true we shall have the licence of the restaurant cancelled immediately but we shall do this in accordance with the law,” the governor said in a telephone interview.
A team of Nation reporters, who had visited the restaurant in Kilimani last week on Friday, were told that African patrons are not allowed in after 5 pm.

RACIAL DISCRIMINATION

Unless it is a taxi driver, Africans, the management made it clear to the reporters, can only be allowed into the premises accompanied by Chinese, European or Indian patrons.

Dr Kidero expressed shock that in this time and age, such racial discrimination seen during the colonial period still existed.

“This is a violation of the Constitution, which calls on people of all races to be treated equally,” he said.

The joint, only known as Chinese Restaurant, is located at the junction of Galana and Lenana roads.

It only allows a certain group of loyal African patrons to dine with other customers in the evening

Among those who access the place after 5pm include, Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko and former Cabinet minister Raphael Tuju.

The Ombudsman, Mr Otiende Amollo, also termed it illegal and unconstitutional for the restaurant to discriminate against any individual.

Dr Kidero however did not say when investigations would be complete but promised Nairobians that they would address the issue soon.