This archive report was first published on 9 December 2019.
On Monday, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko appeared before Anti-Corruption Court Chief Magistrate Douglas Ogoti to face various graft-related charges. However, his defense team took a dramatic turn by claiming that Sonko developed chest complications and rib fractures during his arrest in Voi on Friday.
Lawyer Cecil Miller Jr made the revelation while seeking Sonko's release on bail so that he can be granted medical attention. Miller presented a medical report by Dr. Esther Nafula Wekesa, which stated that Sonko should be released on bail immediately due to the serious chest complications and possible rib fractures he developed during the arrest.
However, the prosecution opposed Sonko's release on bail, citing concerns that he could interfere with State witnesses and that he is wanted for assaulting police officers during his arrest. Prosecutor James Kihara also quoted a 1997 case file in which Sonko allegedly escaped custody after pretending to need treatment.
Miller dismissed the claims of Sonko being a prison escapee, pointing out that various government agencies, including the police and EACC, cleared him to run for public office. Miller also stated that there is neither a pending case nor a warrant of arrest against Sonko.
Furthermore, Miller argued that barring Sonko from accessing his office would lead to a constitutional crisis in Nairobi, as he does not have a deputy governor. He also emphasized that Sonko has no intention of fleeing and that his homes are guarded by the Kenya police.
Published on December 9, 2019, at 5:36 PM.
