Why Sonko is pushing for review of his impeachment
Politics
By
Mike Kihaki
| Nov 23, 2025
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko says he will seek a review of his impeachment as advised by the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), insisting he is defending his constitutional rights and still has legal avenues to pursue.
He accused Chief Justice Martha Koome of misleading the country through remarks she made on national television before his case was concluded, comments he believes shaped public opinion and undermined due process.
Sonko’s response came after Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, in a TV interview, claimed that an impeached leader is permanently barred from holding public office, remarks he linked to the Chief Justice. Sonko dismissed that interpretation as “legally flawed".
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In a strongly worded Facebook post, Sonko told Kioni: “Fight your mountain wars with Gachagua without using me.” He accused Kioni of weaponising selective readings of the Constitution to advance political narratives.
Kioni's comments were attributed to CJ Koome. Sonko, however, rejected this position, claiming the CJ's interpretation of Article 193 was “completely wrong” and contrary to her oath of office.
“The Constitution is not a suggestion it is the law. Article 193(3) states that a person is not disqualified unless all avenues of appeal or review are exhausted. My matters are under review. I have not exhausted all the means available. Why would anyone think I stand impeached forever yet I still have a review ahead of me," he explained.
Sonko further accused Koome of breaching Regulation 18(1) of the Judicial Service Code of Conduct by publicly commenting on a live matter before the Supreme Court, where she later sat as presiding judge. When President William Ruto welcomed former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko to Kenya Kwanza team on July 30, 2022. [File, Standard]
“She knew my case was active before the Supreme Court but still made public comments. She expressly violated regulations that forbid discussing ongoing proceedings. I am the victim,” he said.
Citing Article 12 of the Code of Conduct, Sonko reminded judicial officers to avoid conduct, including in the media, that compromises impartiality or erodes the dignity of the Judiciary.
He stressed that while he respects the office of the Chief Justice, he will “not hesitate to pursue every lawful avenue” to defend both the Constitution and his reputation.
“Kioni now quotes what the Chief Justice said in vain. Misleading the public is unacceptable, especially from the head of the Judiciary. I won’t tolerate my name being misused or the law being twisted,” he added.
Not satisfied the Supreme Court ruling, Sonko moved to the EACJ. The regional court later faulted the Supreme Court for procedural irregularities, raising concerns about fairness and due process, which sonko says he is now pursuing a review.
The Arusha-based court found that the impeachment may have violated Sonko’s rights under Article 25 of the Constitution, as well as Articles 6 and 7 of the EAC Treaty, which emphasise justice, good governance, and adherence to the rule of law.
Although the Supreme Court judgment still stands, the EACJ ruling amounted to a strong criticism of the process. Sonko now plans to file for a review based on new evidence — including affidavits from individuals who say they were coerced by the former regime to implicate him.
Those who have reportedly withdrawn their involvement include the mover of the impeachment motion, former Minority Leader Michael Ogada, former Speaker Benson Mutura, and Majority Leader Abdi Guyo, all of whom have filed affidavits claiming pressure from state operatives.
Sonko also argues that the Supreme Court heard and concluded his case in a single day, denying him adequate time to respond. With the new affidavits and the EACJ findings, he maintains that his fight for justice is far from over.