Governor Sonko Nominates Anne Kananu As DG Despite Court Order Barring Him From Office

By Jakowiti Atwech 

Embattled Nairobi Governor Sonko has nominated little known Anne Kananu Mwenda to be his Deputy, despite a court order barring him accessing his office for the duration of the trial.

In a letter to Assembly Speaker Beatrice Elachi on Monday January 6th 2020, said the decision is in line with article 180(5) of the Constitution and the Supreme Court Advisory of March 2018.

He said though he was granted bail terms in a corruption case, the court required him as the county chief to stay out of office until the determination of the matter.

• “Given the foregoing, and in the interest of ensuring stability at Kenya’s Capital City and largest County by economy and population, I do hereby nominate Anne Kananu Mwenda to the position of Deputy Governor,” Sonko’s letter read.

The letter comes less than 24 hours before a meeting scheduled to discuss the leadership crisis in the county.

Prio to her nomination, Anne Kananu was the County Chief Officer in charge of Disaster Management and acting Chief Officer of water.

Speaker Elachi said on Monday that she is yet to confirm with her office concerning the letter, adding that Elachi said she will consult the Attornery General on the matter and give a way forward on the issue.

• “I’m hearing this news from you because I’m not in the office but will confirm and get back at you,” the Speaker said.

DPP Noordin Haji has termed Governor Sonko’s decision to nominate a deputy as unacceptable, saying the governor is in violation of his bail terms hence his action is null and void.