This archive report was first published on 2 October 2019.
Published on October 2, 2019, a senior political analyst has sparked debate by suggesting that President Uhuru Kenyatta may be grooming Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko as his successor.
After being cleared by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) of any wrongdoing, Governor Sonko returned to Nairobi with a bang, receiving a warm welcome from residents and a coded message from President Uhuru Kenyatta that cartels in the city are on notice.
On Wednesday, Governor Sonko was at hand to receive President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Show Grounds, where the President invited him to ride in his official limo, a privilege reserved for the President and visiting heads of state.
Foremost political analyst Prof. Herbert Manyora argues that there is more to this gesture than meets the eye, suggesting that President Uhuru's support for Governor Sonko is a clear vote of confidence in his leadership of the city.
Other commentators have pointed out that this may be a way of the President sending a clear message to Jubilee Party officials in Nairobi that Governor Sonko enjoys his full support as the Party Leader in running the city.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Governor Sonko's recent clearance by the EACC and his warm welcome back to Nairobi have sparked speculation about his potential future in politics.
