This archive report was first published on 21 September 2019.
Mike Sonko Steps Down Amid Corruption Allegations ¶
Published on September 21, 2019
Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has stepped down from office, citing the need for a free and fair investigation into corruption allegations against him.
According to reports, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is investigating whether Sonko received bribes from companies that won tenders in his administration.
One of the companies allegedly paid Sonko's bank account KSh 20 million, but it is unclear whether this was a bribe or a legitimate payment.
Despite the allegations, Sonko has maintained his innocence and has vowed to cooperate with the investigation.
"I have decided to step aside to allow the EACC to conduct a free and fair investigation into the allegations against me," Sonko said in a statement.
He also assured Nairobi residents that they would continue to receive essential services from the county government without any disruptions.
"Wakazi wanapokea huduma kama kawaida. Hakuna mwanya kwenye uongozi wa kaunti," Sonko said.
However, Sonko has also warned that if he is found guilty of any wrongdoing, he will immediately step down from office.
"Nilisema nitajiondoa kama nitapatikana na lolote la kujibu kuhusiana na madai ambayo yanachunguzwa," Sonko said.
