Governor Sonko, 8 others charged with corruption-related charges

Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has been charged with corruption-related charges alongside eight other suspects.

They denied all the charges before Anti-Corruption Chief magistrate Douglas Ogoti and applied to be released on bail.

The prosecution opposed the Governor’s bail application on grounds that he would interfere with the ongoing investigations by intimidating junior officers at the County government offices.

The Prosecution argued that Sonko had on several occasions threatened the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission investigators and releasing him would jeopardise their work.

Get breaking news on your Mobile as-it-happens. SMS ‘NEWS’ to 20153

The prosecutor informed the court that Sonko had tried to evade arrest after the Director of Public Prosecution Nordin Hajji issued summons.

The prosecution further argued that the Governor had previously jumped bail in 1996 and 1998. He also has a pending criminal case in Mombasa County.

The public prosecutor also sought orders barring Sonko and the County officials from accessing the office until the graft case is heard and determined.

Sonko was represented by a team of lawyers led by Mutula Kilonzo Junior and Cecil Miller.

However, Sonko’s defence team argued that their client had no record of intimidating witnesses.

Sonko is facing various counts including money laundering, abuse of office, acquisition of proceeds of crime, conflict of interest, and conspiracy to commit an offence of corruption.

The accused persons and companies allegedly benefited from the 357.3 million shillings scandal.

Tell Us What You Think