Mike Sonko Survives Legal Blow As High Court Refuses To Stop Him From Leading NEDP For Now

The High Court has declined to suspend former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko from leading the National Economic Development Party. He will remain in the position while a challenge to his eligibility awaits determination.

Justice Roselyne Aburili rejected an application seeking urgent orders to stop Sonko from exercising the powers of party leader. She said the matter did not meet the threshold for consideration without first hearing the respondents.

The judge also declined to certify the petition as urgent. She directed the petitioner to serve all respondents before the case returns to court on November 23 2026 for further directions.

The petition was filed by advocate Nick Sanare. He argues that Sonko is barred from holding leadership positions in political parties following his impeachment as Nairobi governor.

Sanare wants the court to stop Sonko from holding any position within the party’s governing body. He also wants the Registrar of Political Parties barred from recognising him as a founding member or official.

The petitioner further asks that the electoral commission be stopped from accepting nomination certificates or party lists signed by Sonko. This would not affect candidates already cleared by the commission.

Sanare relies on Article 75 of the Constitution and provisions of the Political Parties Act. He says the restrictions extend to leadership roles within political parties.

Sonko was impeached on December 17 2020. The Supreme Court upheld the impeachment on July 15 2022 and his later review applications were dismissed.

The petition claims Sonko founded the party and has publicly acted as its leader. It also says he is leading its campaign in the Migwani Ward by-election on November 17.

https://x.com/Eastleighvoice/status/2116448980855107661?a=ftmDbrdO3dcy4yyybdI&s=09

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