Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has told the court that his refusal to approve a county budget became a major source of friction with the national government and ultimately contributed to his removal from office.
Dispute Over Transferred Functions
Sonko said he declined to sign the budget after consulting legal advisers, who he claimed informed him that there was no sufficient legal framework for Nairobi County to finance several functions transferred from the national government.
He listed transport and infrastructure, health, finance and lands and housing among the areas at the centre of the disagreement.
According to Sonko, approving the budget without resolving the legal questions would have left him personally exposed to liability. He said he subsequently explained his position to the administration of then-President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Claims Over Nairobi Development Projects
Sonko further linked his disagreements with the national government to development plans and private interests he associated with members of the former first family.
During his testimony, he mentioned Northlands Estate and Home Choice Holdings Limited, claiming that infrastructure projects connected to such investments would have required extensive sewer expansion and the demolition of structures in parts of Nairobi.
He said he opposed demolitions and evictions that he believed could have displaced large numbers of residents from areas including Kariobangi and Dandora without adequate compensation.
Sonko maintained that his decisions were guided by what he considered his responsibility to protect Nairobi residents and comply with the law.
Sonko Alleges Ksh2 Million Offers To Senators
The former governor also recounted the events surrounding his impeachment, saying he faced increasing political pressure despite what he described as strong support from Nairobi voters.
He claimed that the alleged pressure extended to the Senate proceedings and that some senators were offered Ksh2 million each to vote in favour of his removal.
The allegation was made by Sonko during his testimony and has not been established as fact in the material provided.
Former Governor Continues Legal Challenge
Sonko said he has continued to challenge his removal from office through the courts, including constitutional proceedings before the High Court.
His account was given while defending himself against an ongoing Ksh20 million corruption case. The testimony forms part of his defence as he contests the charges facing him.
