Sonko Stages Bold Comeback as He Unveils New Political Party
By Peace Muthoka
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has kicked off his political revival after unveiling his newly registered National Economic Development Party (NEDP), marking his most daring return to the political stage since his 2020 impeachment.
Sonko received the party’s registration certificate this morning, announcing that NEDP will champion fresh, youthful leadership across the country. He said the party is open to all Kenyans who want a political home that breaks away from old habits and gives young people real power.
The ex-governor insisted that his impeachment saga is far from over, revealing plans to file a fresh review at the Supreme Court. He argued that new evidence— including affidavits allegedly sworn by former MCAs who now claim they were pressured to impeach him— gives him a strong basis to challenge the 2020 decision.
Sonko was impeached by Nairobi MCAs in December 2020 before his appeals failed at the High Court, Court of Appeal and ultimately the Supreme Court. He then turned to the East African Court of Justice, which later ruled that his removal from office had been unlawful.
Speaking outside the Registrar of Political Parties offices, Sonko maintained that Article 193 of the Constitution allows him to seek elective office as long as avenues for appeal or review remain open.
“In just 24 hours, the Supreme Court buried my political career, but it’s not over,” Sonko said. “I have new evidence, and once I file for review, I will be eligible to run for any seat.”
He added that NEDP is not a personal vehicle but a platform to empower ordinary Kenyans.
“This movement is not about Sonko. It is about young people who have always been used as voters and never decision-makers,” he said, promising a nationwide recruitment drive.
NEDP’s top leadership includes former SONU leader Anthony Manyara and student leader Naomi Chebet Masai as deputy party leaders. John Nyamu will serve as chairman, while Sonko’s former aide Ben Mulwa takes up the role of Secretary General.
Masai said the party will push for meaningful youth representation: “We will no longer wait to be invited to the table. We will be the ones preparing the menu.”
Sonko, who has previously served as Makadara MP, Nairobi Senator and Governor, said the official launch of NEDP will take place on a later date as the party begins to assemble its national network.
