Sonko Pleads with Court to Release His Passports to Enable Him Travel Abroad

Embattled Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko on Wednesday moved to court seeking to have his passport released to enable him to travel abroad.

In an application filed at the Milimani Law Courts, Sonko’s lawyers noted that the Governor wants to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for official duty.

They told the court that Governor Sonko had been invited to attend the 10th session of the World Urban Forum which takes place from February 8th to 13th.

“The applicant has been invited in his capacity as the Governor of the Nairobi City County and is expected to engage in discussion with other participants on the theme of the forum,” reads court papers.

The lawyers further submitted that their client is willing to adhere to the conditions that may be set by the court in regard to the release of his passport.

The prosecution opposed the application arguing that they need time to verify the documents attached in his application and the validity of his letter of invitation. The prosecution claimed that Sonko has paid for the trip using his cards and this may be proof he was traveling for personal luxury as opposed to official duty.

“Sonko is traveling in his official capacity however the court in its Ruling barred the accused from his office ..he, therefore, cannot purport to be performing his official duties by traveling to attend the meeting,” the prosecution submitted.

Sonko was last December released on bail after denying graft charges over the alleged misappropriation of county funds amounting to Sh357 million. 

He was barred from accessing his office pending the hearing and determination of the case. He was also ordered to deposit his passport in court and first seek permission before traveling outside the country.