Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and his immediate family members have been banned from traveling to the US over corruption allegations related to abuse of office and bribery.
According to the Tuesday announcement by Counselor for Public Affairs Eric Watnik at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Sonko’s ban from the US is based on “involvement in significant corruption” during his short tenure at City Hall.
Watnik said the State Department has declared Sonko, his wife Primrose Mbuvi, his daughters Saumu and Salma, and his underage son ineligible for entry into the US.
The designation means they have also been banned from doing any business with the US.
“His (Sonko’s) corruption has been widely reported in the local and international press. With this designation the department reaffirms the need for accountability, transparency, and respect for rule of law in Kenya’s democratic institutions, government processes, and the actions of the public officials,” said Watnik.
He continued: “The United States will continue to use all tools available to combat corruption and promote respect for human rights globally.”
Sonko was ousted through an impeachment as Nairobi Governor in December 2020. He is currently facing various graft cases in court.
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