Sonko Seeks Court Approval to Travel to South Africa for Urgent Surgery

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has asked the court to allow him to travel to South Africa for urgent medical treatment.
 
In a report filed in court on Friday, Dr. Esther Wekesa of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) says Sonko needs to travel abroad for hip replacement surgery.

The medic notes the operation is needed urgently since Sonko, who has been in the hospital for over two weeks after developing stomach complications, has developed severe arthritis.

"If left untreated, avascular necrosis can lead to severe complications such as bone collapse or even fracture," Dr. Wekesa explains.

She adds that they have chosen the services of Johannesburg-based surgeon Dr. Robert Van Der Plank, who cannot travel to Kenya at the moment.

"I have spoken with Dr. Plank on phone and email about taking up the case but he has not been to Kenya in the last 2 years and says he won't be coming anytime soon," she adds.

The case will be mentioned on March 3rd when the trial Magistrate, who was away on Friday, will give directions on the medical report produced in court.

Sonko is facing separate charges related to corruption, robbery with violence, and terrorism.