This archive report was first published on 26 November 2019.
Published on November 26, 2019, by Robert Shaw.
As residents of Nairobi City County, we watch with growing concern as our county government is mismanaged and run down. Governor Mike Sonko Mbuvi, also known as Mbuvi Gideon Kioko, has shown himself to be unfit for the office he holds.
One of the reasons for this contention is that Governor Sonko has a criminal record, which should have disqualified him from holding public office. He was sent to prison for an offense and is also liable to be charged for two additional offenses. This goes against the leadership and integrity requirements outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Furthermore, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is investigating Governor Sonko over allegations of corruption, involving Sh27.4 million wired into his accounts from three entities who were awarded contracts by his administration.
It is essential that Governor Sonko steps aside to allow for a fair investigation and to prevent any interference with the process. This is not only a procedural requirement but also a legal one, as Justice Mumbi Ngugi has already ruled in a similar case involving Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu.
Once Governor Sonko steps aside, the question of who takes over on an interim basis will arise. If the procedure is that the Speaker of the County Assembly takes over for 90 days, that should be followed. However, if Governor Sonko resigns or is convicted, it will pave the way for an election for governor and deputy.
It is also essential that Nairobi City County's operation is restored, focused, and capacity-built. The national government should facilitate this by providing external professional advice and help.
