Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has come out to defend his nomination for fiery lawyer Miguna Miguna as the next Nairobi Deputy Governor.
Sonko says that his decision to settle on Miguna was informed by his abrasive nature which comes in handy in the fight against cartels at City Hall which is the heartbeat of the county government.
In his defense, he told Citizen TV in a phone interview that he is acting in the spirit of the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga.
“In the spirit of the so-called handshake and reconciliation, peace and forgiveness, mimi sioni makosa kubwa ambayo Miguna amefanya, hata kama sijamconsult (I do not see the big mistake Miguna made, even if I did not consult him),” he said.
He added that “Miguna is anti-cartel number one” which makes him a suitable candidate for the job.
Further, Sonko states, “I am the Governor of Nairobi and the Constitution is clear that I have the power to appoint the Deputy Governor.”
He calls for forgiveness saying Miguna has not wronged anyone, therefore, should be given a chance to serve Nairobians in the capacity of a Deputy Governor.
“Miguna asamehewe, arudi Kenya, achukue kazi yake, apigane na cartels na wizi na ule cartel mkubwa,” says Sonko.
It loosely translates to in English: “Miguna should be forgiven so he can return to Kenya, take the job and fights cartels and theft),” he said, adding he will not withdraw the letter on Miguna’s nominations.”
He also pleads with the President to see to it that Miguna has gotten back his citizenship.
“I respect the President, DP William Ruto, Jubilee party and the Assembly. I beg you, Mr. President, Miguna is a human being and a Kenya … let his citizenship be restored.”
Yesterday, Miguna dismissed the nomination by Sonko terming is a “malicious distraction”.