Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko rejects claims of political manipulation in his Ukambani engagements.
The NEDP leader says meetings with regional leaders do not signal factional loyalty and urges Kalonzo to protect the Kamba community’s interests.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko denies coercion in his recent political engagements as Ukambani leaders explore alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election. He rejected claims that political power brokers are using him to advance their interests.
Sonko said his appearances with former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama did not amount to endorsing a political faction. He also rejected that interpretation of his attendance at a church service with nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda.
Sonko denies coercion amid regional unity push
The National Economic Development Party (NEDP) leader has engaged influential figures from Ukambani, including Muthama and Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua. These contacts come amid efforts to bring the region’s political leaders together before the next election.
Muthama has urged Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Mutua and Sonko to work together. He argues that unity would strengthen the Kamba community’s bargaining position in national politics.
However, Sonko drew a distinction between cooperation among regional leaders and political manipulation. He maintained that shared interests guide his engagements, rather than instructions from political power brokers. Meeting leaders across political divides, he argued, should not suggest that he acts on someone else’s behalf.
Warning over Kamba interests in future alliances
Meanwhile, Sonko has used social media to press his concerns about the community’s role in future alliances. He has advanced that position through personal posts and messages shared by his NEDP deputy, Anthony Manyara.
Sonko urged Kalonzo to guard against arrangements that could secure Kamba support without protecting the community’s interests. He argued that political formations have previously mobilised the community, then sidelined it during power-sharing negotiations.
His warning comes as discussions around Kalonzo’s presidential ambitions intersect with efforts to build regional unity. Sonko also said he would continue cooperating with leaders who share his outlook while expanding NEDP’s national presence.
He maintained that such cooperation reflects his own political choices, not allegiance to a particular faction.
