This archive report was first published on 3 December 2019.
December 3, 2019, marked a day of intense online activism as Kenyans on Twitter (KOT) rallied behind a single cause: the arrest of Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko.
The governor's administration has been marred by corruption allegations, poor governance, and a lack of progress in addressing the city's drainage and flooding issues.
Netizens pointed out that despite Sonko's promises to fix the drainage system, the situation remains unchanged, with many questioning the allocation of funds meant for this purpose.
"Where have the monies allegedly allocated for drainage gone to?" asked one user.
Corruption allegations against Sonko have been ongoing, with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) releasing a report detailing his kickback web. Companies linked to his allies and those doing business with the city county were found to have been wiring kickbacks to him after landing lucrative tenders.
Users also criticized Sonko for his love of violence and chaos, pointing out instances where his supporters have used violence to intimidate those working against him. The governor has also been accused of physically assaulting people.
Furthermore, KOT members mocked Sonko's PR stunts, calling him a "superstar" who wants to be recognized for his mastery of recording conversations and posting his luxurious lifestyle on social media.
Additionally, the issue of Sonko's unfinished prison term was raised, with some users questioning why he has not completed his sentence.