Editor's Review

Sonko was hit by the ban over his alleged corrupt dealings while he was Nairobi County's boss.

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has been dealt a huge blow after he was on Tuesday banned from setting foot in the United States of America.

According to the US embassy, the flamboyant politician was hit by the ban over his alleged corrupt dealings while he was Nairobi County's boss.

In a press statement at the Embassy's premises in Nairobi, Counselor for Public Affairs Eric Watnik stated that Sonko’s family will also not be allowed to enter the United States of America.

“His (Sonko’s) corruption has been widely reported in local and international press. With this designation the department reaffirms the need for accountability, transparency and respect for rule of law in Kenya’s democratic institutions, government processes and the actions of the public officials,” Watnik stated.

He further affirmed that the US will use all the tools available to combat corruption globally. According to Watnik, who issued the statement on behalf of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the department has enough information linking Sonko to corruption.

{Mike sonko (in handcuffs). Image: Courtesy}

“The department has credible information that the former governor was involved in significant corruption when serving as governor of Nairobi. We determined that he received bribes in kickbacks in exchange for irregular awarding of contracts to his associates for personal gains,” he added.

Watnik further maintained that the information leading to the ban on Sonko is credible and available at the embassy.

Sonko is currently facing three graft cases in court.