In a bid to revive himself ahead of the 2027 General election, former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has registered a new political party; National Economic Development Party (NEDP).
Speaking after receiving the registration certificate from The Office of Registrar of political parties (ORPP) the flamboyant politician said, “This is the party (NEDP) to watch. We are building a movement that will help form the next government. We welcome everyone from Gen-Z to elders from all political backgrounds.”
Since being blocked from the ballot just weeks before the elections by IEBC after the Supreme Court upheld his impeachment in July 2022, Sonko has tried to stay relevant through his ‘Sonko Rescue Team’ and pulling online stunts only he can. The former governor had put up a spirited campaign for the Mombasa Gubernatorial elections prior to the court’s decision through the Wiper Democratic Movement.
Though the ORPP cleared the party saying it had fulfilled all legal requirements, Sonko is barred from running for any political office as the party leader due to his impeachment in Nairobi. Sonko, who recently got a got a legal and moral victory after the East African Court of Justice determined that the process leading to his permanent removal from office was unfair, took the chance to criticize the supreme court.
“The supreme court rushed my case and the East African Court of Justice confirmed my impeachment was unfair. A leader can only be locked out after exhausting all avenues of appeal,” Sonko said.
The ruling by EACJ however did not overturn the impeachment and only served to declare that Kenya (Judiciary) breached the EAC Treaty which guarantees rule of law and good governance.
“A few years ago a group of like-minded people sat together and felt it was time to set up a party that addressed the economic challenges that Kenyans face. Today we are happy to launch that party that is committed to addressing the challenges that 50 plus million Kenyans face,” said Ben Mulwa (SG) after the launch.
Documents seen by Topnews.ke indicate that Sonko will be the party leader, deputized by Naomi Chebet Nasai and Anthony Manyara. John Muchai Nyamu will be the National Chairperson while the powerful docket of secretary general will be held by Bernard Kioo Mulwa. Other officials of the party include, Francis Wambua (national treasurer) Peterson Maina, Zabron Rashid, Nancy Muchani, Eric Njoroge and Joseph Kiangoi.
NEDP is expected to field candidates across the country in 2027 with Machakos, Sonko’s new political base, expected to be it’s stronghold.
