NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has issued a strong rebuttal to a front-page headline by The Standard newspaper linking him, along with other former Governors, to a narrative on “devolved corruption.”
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Mr Sonko accused the publication of propagating misinformation and tarnishing his reputation. He described the headline — “Devolved Corruption – 12 Years Later” — as misleading and said it unfairly associated his name with corruption without factual basis.
“Instead of paying their staff salary arrears, they are busy spreading propaganda and misleading the public,” Mr Sonko wrote.
The former governor cited Article 50(2) of Kenya’s Constitution, which guarantees the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
He stressed that he had never been convicted of corruption in any court and highlighted previous acquittals in high-profile corruption cases.
Legal cases and acquittals
Mr Sonko said he was acquitted, alongside 16 others, in a KSh 357 million case by Chief Magistrate Eunice Nyotu due to insufficient evidence. He also referred to a separate KSh 20 million corruption case in which he was acquitted by Chief Magistrate Douglas Ogoti.
However, he noted that the latter acquittal was overturned by High Court Judge Nixon Sifuna, and the matter remains active. Citing the principle of sub judice, Mr Sonko said he would refrain from discussing the ongoing case but insisted that The Standard was wrong to portray him as guilty.
Accusations of irresponsible reporting
The former governor accused The Standard of engaging in “irresponsible reporting” and using sensational headlines without corroborating evidence. He further urged the media house to prioritise constructive stories, such as the recent victory of the national football team, Harambee Stars, and to address what he claimed were internal labour disputes.
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Mr Sonko alleged that The Standard Group has experienced financial challenges, including delayed or unpaid salaries, and non-remittance of statutory deductions such as PAYE, NSSF, and NHIF — claims that could not be immediately verified. He argued that such issues have hindered former employees from obtaining tax clearances, affecting their ability to secure new employment.
Call for accountability
In his closing remarks, Mr Sonko questioned the accountability of the media house, saying:
“For how long will this newspaper tarnish people’s names without being held accountable for its wrongdoing?”
He reaffirmed his intention to take legal action against the publication, demanding that it produce evidence of his alleged corruption and a record of conviction, similar to what he said had been presented for others mentioned in the report.
The Standard has yet to issue a public response to Mr Sonko’s allegations.