Sonko Vio Drama:The Deep State Inside Story

 This story is far bigger than just the drama surrounding Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko. The real question we need to ask is: what has changed? Something major has shifted, and it’s a game-changer in Kenyan politics. Let’s break it down step by step.

First, there are reports that a senior official at the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) was fired for allegedly leaking information to Sonko about upcoming moves by the agency. This is no small matter—having an insider suggests Sonko was anticipating a significant investigation against him.

Second, when authorities went looking for him at his home, he was nowhere to be found. Eventually, they caught up with him near Voi, reportedly headed for the Taita-Taveta border to cross into Tanzania. This raises important questions: why would a sitting governor flee the country unless he already knew what was coming?

For context, let’s take a step back. Governor Mike Sonko and President Uhuru Kenyatta were once very close allies. Their bond grew during the time when both Uhuru and William Ruto were battling the so-called “deep state” under the Kibaki administration. Sonko was a key supporter, standing by their side during tough times.

During the 2017 elections, Sonko faced significant challenges securing the Jubilee nomination for Nairobi governor. However, a single phone call from the top resolved the issue, allowing him to sail through the nomination and eventually win the election. This history highlights just how closely aligned Sonko was with the powers that be.

So, what changed? It’s clear that something shifted drastically in their relationship. Given Sonko’s combative nature, it’s likely that he was asked to step down quietly and refused. His dramatic arrest, during which he reportedly lost a shoe and fought with officers, underscores his determination to go down fighting.

Now, let’s address the broader implications. With no deputy governor in Nairobi, Speaker Beatrice Elachi may step in as acting governor for up to 60 days. Her recent return to City Hall seems almost too well-timed, suggesting this situation may have been anticipated. Some are even speculating that a by-election could be called, potentially setting the stage for intense political battles in Nairobi.

Currently, two of Kenya’s most influential politicians—William Ruto and Raila Odinga—have a strong presence at City Hall. Their rivalry could escalate if a by-election is declared. This would be a continuation of their recent clash in Kibra, where tensions ran high. If another political battle unfolds in Nairobi, it promises to be just as fiery.

Back to Sonko. It’s expected that he will face corruption charges when arraigned in court, following the recent trend of governors being forced out of office after such charges. But there’s another layer to this story: allegations from Sonko’s past. It’s widely known that he escaped from prison years ago, and there’s a possibility that this past could now catch up with him.

This raises a burning question: when did things start to go wrong for Sonko? Some point to his public attacks on senior figures in government, including controversial comments about PS Karanja Kibicho and others aligned with the deep state. While Sonko later distanced himself from the anti-BBI “Tanga Tanga” faction, some sources claim he secretly remained loyal to it, potentially acting as a mole within the BBI camp.

Ultimately, Sonko’s downfall may be linked to his erratic decision-making and emotional approach to politics. While his philanthropy and generosity endeared him to many, his inability to think strategically may have sealed his fate. In politics, the scent of vulnerability can be fatal, and Sonko failed to protect himself from political predators.

As things stand, Sonko’s future looks bleak. If the allegations are proven, he could face significant jail time. Meanwhile, Nairobi’s political landscape remains uncertain, with potential elections and intense battles ahead.