This archive report was first published on 12 December 2019.
On December 12, 2019, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko posted a Jamhuri Day message on Twitter, only to have Kenyans turn it into comic relief.
The message, which was posted after Sonko's release from police custody, read: 'Jamuhuri Day reminds us of the power of independence and why it's important for every one of us to fight for our rightful position in society and all spheres of life.'
However, the message fell flat with many Kenyans, who chose to taunt him over his recent arrest and corruption charges.
On December 11, 2019, Sonko was set free on a cash bail of Ksh.15 million after spending five days in police custody.
Despite his release, Sonko has been barred from accessing his office and is restricted from discussing the case on social media.
On Twitter, some users sympathized with Sonko, while others chose to mock him. Lepiran Kinanti offered words of encouragement, saying: 'You shall overcome Governor.'
However, others were not so kind. Emmanuel Kipkosgei quipped: 'You were sick before allowed the bail out by the court, after that I thought you would go back to KNH. Ulipona instantly!'
Another Twitter user, Chilal, sarcastically said: 'We want to come and visit you boss! Uko Aga Khan, Nairobi ama Kenyatta hospital?'
The Governor and 11 others, including Nairobi County Government officials, are facing 19 corruption-related charges involving Ksh.357 million in county funds.
