Facing political storms head-on, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko is making a bold move to reclaim his place in Kenyan politics. After successfully registering the National Economic Development Party (NEDP), Sonko is signaling his intent to make a comeback. But here's where it gets controversial: despite being impeached, he's not backing down. He's planning to challenge the Supreme Court's decision that upheld his impeachment.
Sonko's journey through the legal system has been a rollercoaster. He was impeached by the Nairobi County Assembly (MCAs) back in December 2020. He fought the decision in the High Court, and eventually, the case reached the Supreme Court, which upheld the impeachment. However, the story didn't end there. Sonko then took his case to the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), where he found a glimmer of hope as the court ruled in his favor, stating his impeachment was unlawful.
Now, Sonko is seeking a review of his case. He's relying on a clause in the constitution that states a person isn't barred from running for office unless all appeal or review options have been exhausted. He believes he has a strong case, armed with new evidence. He claims to possess affidavits from MCAs who impeached him, alleging they were pressured by powerful government figures.
"I have exhausted all my appeals up to the Supreme Court, but then I have a very good case that is coming up for review in light of new evidence that is in my possession,” Sonko explained to journalists. He further emphasized that the East African Court of Justice disagreed with the Kenyan Supreme Court's decision. Sonko is confident that a review of the Supreme Court's decision will make him eligible to run for any seat.
On Tuesday morning, Sonko announced that his new NEDP party will focus on bringing in young people to compete for various seats across the country. He framed this as a movement for ordinary Kenyans, inviting them to join what he calls a break from the past. The formal launch of the party is scheduled for a later date.
Sonko, who has held various political positions, including Makadara MP, Nairobi Senator, and Governor, will lead the NEDP. His deputies include ex-SONU leader Anthony Manyara and KEMU University Student leader Naomi Chebet Masai. The party also has a full lineup of officials, including John Nyamu as chairman and Ben Mulwa as Secretary General.
"As youths, we will no longer sit on the dining table or but we will be the ones to prepare the menu,” Masai said, highlighting the party's focus on empowering youth in Kenyan politics.
Do you think Sonko has a legitimate chance to overturn the Supreme Court's decision? Do you believe the new evidence he claims to possess will be enough? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below – let's get a discussion going!
