Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has declared a fresh attempt to return to active politics after successfully registering a new political outfit, the National Economic Development Party (NEDP).

The former county chief said the move sets the foundation for a renewed fight to reclaim his eligibility for public office.

Sonko, who was impeached in December 2020, maintains that his removal from office was unlawful.

He insists that despite an impeached leader being barred from vying for office, he will push for a final review of his case before the Supreme Court.

While addressing journalists moments after filing documents at the Registrar of Political Parties, Sonko said he still has an open legal window.

“Yes, I have exhausted all my appeals up to the Supreme Court, but then I have a very good case that is coming up for review in light of new evidence that is in my possession,” he stated.

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New Legal Push Based on Fresh Evidence

The former governor revealed that he has obtained sworn statements from some MCAs who voted for his ouster, claiming they were coerced by powerful figures within the government.

“I have affidavits from some of the leaders disowning the impeachment; this is the new evidence I intend to file in court as I seek a review of the decision,” he said.

According to Sonko, the ruling by the East African Court of Justice, which found his impeachment unlawful, strengthens his quest for reinstatement of his political rights.

He noted, “In just 24 hours, the Supreme Court buried my political career, but it’s not yet over. Article 193 of the Constitution provides that you can only be locked out if you have exhausted all the appeals or reviews available. I am returning to court on a review basis and thus will be eligible to contest for any seat based on the pending review.”

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Youth-Focused Party to Drive New Agenda

On Tuesday morning, Sonko said his newly registered NEDP will prioritise young leaders seeking elective seats countrywide.

“This is not about Sonko but ordinary Kenyans. We will be holding a recruitment drive and hereby invite all Kenyans to this movement, which is a break from the past,” he said, adding that the official unveiling of the party will be done at a later date.

Documents indicate Sonko will serve as party leader, supported by former SONU chairman Anthony Manyara and KEMU student leader Naomi Chebet Masai as deputy party leaders.

The line-up also includes John Nyamu as chairman and former personal assistant Ben Mulwa as the Secretary General.

Others appointed include Eric Njoroge (Deputy SG), Francis Wambua (Treasurer), Laura Mwende (Deputy Treasurer), Peterson Maina (National Organising Secretary), and Joseph Kiangoi (Deputy Organising Secretary).

Masai said the party intends to elevate the role of young people in national leadership.

“As youths, we will no longer sit on the dining table or but we will be the ones to prepare the menu,” she remarked, asserting that NEDP will push for meaningful youth inclusion instead of treating them merely as voting blocs.

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Former Nairobi Governor, Mike Mbuvi Sonko. PHOTO/ Sonko