Sonko Speaks on Appointment of Deputy Governor

Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, on Monday, December 9, addressed the alleged news regarding his appointment of Simon Mbugua as his deputy governor.

Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke  through his Director of Communications, Jakob Elkanah, the governor categorically classified the news as fake.

He went on to urge Kenyans to ignore the memo doing the rounds on social media, adding that any communication from the governor's office would come through the official channels.

The fake statement dated December 9, 2019, complete with City Hall's insignia, had mentioned Simon Mbugua as Sonko's choice for deputy governor.

"To ensure that residents are not denied service and sound leadership, I hereby nominate Hon. Simon Mbugua as the Deputy Governor of Nairobi," read the statement in part.

The fake letter also indicated that Sonko had decided to step aside from office, a fact he has also denied.

Sonko was arrested in dramatic fashion in Voi on Friday, December 6, and faces over 13 counts of conflict of interest and corruption allegations.

He was arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts on Monday, December 9, where he quickly went about displaying his resolve to fight it out against his accusers, by hiring a team of 12 lawyers reportedly led by Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen.

The governor stands accused of misappropriating over Ksh357 million together with other county officials.