Sonko Ditches Azimio, Joins Ruto's Kenya Kwanza Alliance

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has ditched Azimio La Umoja-One Kenya coalition to join Deputy President William Ruto-led Kenya Kwanza Alliance.

Sonko, who was recently disqualified from the Mombasa gubernatorial race on grounds of his impeachment as Nairobi governor, was welcomed to the Kenya Kwanza Alliance by Ruto at his Karen residence on Saturday. 

He pointed out that he has decided to work with Ruto, who is eyeing the presidency in the forthcoming elections, since they share the same vision.

“Time is not on our side and I have had to sit down as a leader, think about what would be best for my people and I have come to the realisation that I should work with a government that shares the same vision for my people as I and one that benefits them,” Sonko said in a statement posted on his Facebook page.

“It is not about Sonko now, I have to think about the people of Mombasa and their future.”

Sonko further announced he will back United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party candidate Hassan Omar for the Mombasa governor race, citing frustrations by powerful individuals who were determined to stop his bid.

“I want justice to take its course. The system wants to fix me. Don’t crucify my people. Mr Odinga was the best presidential candidate, but I know what has transpired,” he said

As part of his agreement to join Kenya Kwanza, Sonko says he has been promised several government positions including one Cabinet Secretary (CS) post in the national government, three Principal Secretary (PS) slots, and four ambassadorial positions.

He has also been offered three County Executive Committee members (CECs) in Mombasa County, three Chief officers in Mombasa County, two CECs in Nairobi County and three Chief Officers in Nairobi County.

“With your blessings, I would want to get into this agreement with UDA, so that I can be assured of jobs and opportunities for my Mombasa and Nairobi people,” Sonko added.