Mike Sonko Says Baby James Will Not Be Returned to Kisii Uncles

Nairobi County’s former governor, Mike Sonko, has announced that Baby James won’t be handed back to his family in Kisii, fueling an ongoing debate about his custody that has gained much media attention.

In a statement issued on Monday, April 6, 2026, Sonko insisted that the child himself had refused to leave his care, a decision he says he fully supports.

“Last night, I made arrangements to take Baby James back to Kisii. However, as I calmly prepared him, following his uncle’s request and without applying any pressure, the child clearly and firmly refused. He chose to remain under my care. I fully stand by his decision,” Sonko stated.

The businessman framed the development as a turning point in the matter, attributing the outcome to divine intervention while signaling a firm stance against any external pressure to relinquish custody.

“This Easter Monday, I thank Almighty God for revealing the truth and preventing any plans by the devil aimed at separating this child from my care,” he said.

Escalating Dispute and Allegations

Sonko further accused unnamed individuals of spreading falsehoods and manipulating the situation for personal gain, warning that he would not tolerate continued public interference.

“Let it be made absolutely clear that going forward, I will not tolerate lies, propaganda, or misinformation. Not everything seen on social media reflects the truth,” he said.

The former governor added that the situation had been unnecessarily sensationalized, dragging the minor into public controversy.

“What began as a small matter has been deliberately distorted by individuals with personal interests, to the extent of dragging an innocent child into unnecessary public drama. That must stop now,” he asserted.

He also issued a stern warning against attempts to exploit the child for leverage, stating: “Any attempt to use this child for clout, blackmail, or intimidation will not be accepted and will be dealt with accordingly. I will not be intimidated, nor will I be shaken.”

Also Read: Sonko Mounts Defence in Ksh 20 Million Corruption Case

Background of the Custody Controversy

The controversy dates back to an unfortunate event in Mathare, Nairobi, where Baby James allegedly saw his father being murdered by unknown assailants.

Sonko then took custody of the baby based on humanitarian considerations, as well as his understanding of consent from both the local authorities and the family.

While burying the child’s father in Kisii, Sonko asserts that the family had made other demands such as getting employment for some of the family members.

In what Sonko referred to as goodwill, he took one of the family members to stay at his residence.

This situation later soured when some of the family members were accused of misconduct, theft, and drug abuse.

This conflict seems to have led to an escalation of the crisis as accusations and counter-accusations flew through the various social media channels.

Sonko has been arguing that all subsequent accusations against him and the claim that he was taking custody of the child unlawfully were acts of blackmail.

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Sonko Maintains Open Door for Family Visits

Despite the hardline stance on custody, Sonko emphasized that he continues to respect the child’s extended family and is open to maintaining their involvement in the child’s life.

“That said, I continue to respect the baby’s family. Anyone from his extended family, including grandpas, uncles, aunts, cousins, and others who wish to follow his progress or visit him, is welcome,” he said.

He went further to offer logistical support for such visits, adding: “I will even be ready to facilitate this, including covering travel expenses from Kisii to Nairobi and back.”

Reiterating his commitment to the child’s welfare, Sonko underscored his long-term intentions.

“My priority is to ensure that this child grows up in a safe, stable environment, with proper care and quality education. I have done this successfully before in other similar cases, which don’t even need explanations, and I will continue to do so,” he said.

Concluding his statement, Sonko made it clear that his position remains unchanged despite mounting pressure.

“No amount of pressure will change my position. Let the child have peace. Let this matter rest. Enjoy the rest of your easter Monday.”

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