Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who was charged with various corruption-related offenses this week, skipped this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations held at Nyayo Stadium on Thursday.
Instead, Sonko took to social media to wish a happy Jamhuri Day to Nairobi residents and Kenyans adding that he was spending time home following his release from custody on Wednesday.
“I am happy to join the rest of Kenyans in marking the 56th Jamhuri Day celebrations. To all Nairobi residents and Kenyans at large I wish y’all a happy Jamhuri Day,” he wrote.
“The last few days have been a bit difficult. However, I would like to thank my family, friends, well-wishers and all of you the great people of Nairobi for standing with me. I’m home now and continuing with treatment after posting bail yesterday,” he added.
“As I have always said, I am a law-abiding citizen, hence shall comply with the court’s decision that I stay away from my office to let justice take its course.”
Sonko, who was released on a cash bail of Sh15 million after spending five days in police custody, has been barred from accessing his office until his trial concludes.
The celebrations were presided over by President Kenyatta with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley as the special guest. Leaders who attended the fete included Deputy President William Ruto, ODM leader Raila Odinga, and National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, among others.
Also in attendance were special envoys and foreign diplomats stationed in Nairobi. Today marks 56 years since Kenya became a republic.
