A defamation case filed by advocate Lucy Momanyi against former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko continued at the Milimani High Court, where the former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko defended comments he made during a 2014 television interview, insisting they were truthful and made in good faith.
Sonko Maintains His Remarks Were Based on Belief
While being cross-examined on Monday, April 2, 2026, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko told the court that his remarks, including referring to Momanyi as a thief during a live TV interview, were based on what he genuinely believed at the time.
He said the statements were made during his appearance on KTN’s Morning Express in 2014.
“I spoke freely on the morning show. What I said were things I believed to be true,” he told the court.
Sonko further maintained that he had supporting material for his claims and even referenced documents during the broadcast.
“I called Lucy a thief and I have evidence she is one,” he said.
Momanyi Says Remarks Were Defamatory
Momanyi has sued former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko over the statements, arguing that they were false, defamatory, and damaged her professional reputation as an advocate when aired before a national audience.
The case arises from the controversial television interview in which the disputed remarks were made.
Sonko Cites Earlier Media Report
In his defence, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko referred to a March 31, 2014 media report which he said contained allegations against him, including claims that he was a thief and questions about his acquittal in a fraud case in Mombasa.
He told the court that his television appearance was a response to those claims in order to present his side of the story.
Estate Dispute Raised in Defence
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also linked the matter to a wider disagreement involving the estate of the late James Simon Bellhouse, where Momanyi reportedly served as a co-administrator.
He told the court that disputes arose over the administration of the estate, particularly concerning properties he believed were not fully disclosed in the will.
“I was not an executor of the deceased. The contents of the will became doubtful, and I sought clarification from the plaintiff, who ignored my requests,” he said.
Allegations of Complaints and Threats
He further told the court that the widow of the deceased had lodged complaints with the Law Society of Kenya and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, some of which later appeared in the media.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko added that the widow also reported alleged threats, and that he advised her to report the matter to police.
However, he admitted that he never recorded a statement with the police regarding the issue.
Momanyi Absent from Hearing.
The court was informed that Momanyi was not present during the proceedings as she was unwell and in Mombasa.
Case to Be Determined
The court will now determine whether the remarks by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko amount to fair comment made in the public interest or whether they crossed the legal threshold into defamation.
