This archive report was first published on 19 September 2019.
On September 19, 2019, Nairobi City County Governor Mike Sonko made a statement regarding his silence on the EACC investigations.
As a governor who does not shy away from controversy, Sonko has consistently demonstrated his commitment to zero tolerance on corruption.
He has been on record promising to step aside if found guilty of any allegations under investigation touching on Nairobi County.
When summoned by the EACC to shed light on the garbage collection tenders, Sonko drove himself to their offices and arrived at Integrity Centre as early as 6:00AM, a show of his commitment to the fight against corruption.
He chose to go alone, unlike Kiambu Governor Waititu, who was accompanied by his supporters, emphasizing the importance of independence in anti-graft agencies.
Despite several fake news reports by media houses, Sonko has maintained total silence on the matter, not wanting to pre-empt or jeopardize the EACC investigations, its findings, or final report.
He commended the EACC for their professional treatment during the questioning and recording of his statement.
As a precaution, Sonko has stayed away from his City Hall Office to avoid being accused of interfering with official records that might be used as evidence against him.
He emphasized the importance of supporting the war on corruption by example, setting the pace for others to follow.
However, Sonko warned those celebrating his absence and silence, stating that he would not engage in a fight against corruption agencies if accused of corruption.
He also clarified that he would only appoint his deputy once the ongoing legislation on the County Government Amendment Bill is concluded and forwarded to the President for assenting.
Furthermore, Sonko posed a question to legal experts: What if both the Governor and his Deputy have to be absent from office or step aside temporarily at the same time, who will act as Governor under Article 179(5) of the Constitution?
Despite his temporary absence, Sonko remains in charge and is actively overseeing the day-to-day running of Nairobi City County affairs, assuring residents that service delivery is running as usual and there is no power vacuum in the County.
