Nairobi Mayor forms team to look into laws on prostitutes

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By NATION REPORTER
Posted  Sunday, February 5  2012 at  21:05

A committee has been appointed to advise whether prostitution should be legalised in Nairobi, city Mayor George Aladwa said on Sunday. (READ:Nairobi Mayor hints at legalising prostitution)

The committee, which is led by assistant town clerk in charge of reforms Daniel Masetu, was mandated to analyse city by-laws that make prostitution illegal and advise the mayor.

But even if the committee recommends that the council legalises prostitution, changing the laws would require a resolution passed by a full council meeting.

Until then, Mr Aladwa said frequent crackdowns on prostitution would continue.

He further ordered they be extended to high-end estates and target not only the commercial sex workers, but also their customers.

The council will not allow sex trade to flourish. It is still against the law until we receive recommendations of the committee, and change the law,” said Mr Aladwa.

He was speaking to journalists at the mayor’s parlour in Nairobi. Mr Aladwa said Kenyans would be “shocked” by the clientele that visits high-end brothels. 
“Those criticizing my boldness are beneficiaries of the sex trade. Most of those involved in the trade are not there by choice but due to circumstances,” he said.

The Masetu-led committee, will also look into laws touching on the plight of hawkers, street families and matatu crew.