Mike Sonko launches NEDP party ahead of 2027 elections

Former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko returned to Kenyan politics Tuesday with the official launch of his National Economic Development Party (NEDP), vowing to contest every seat in 2027 — including the presidency — despite a Supreme Court ruling that bars him from public office.

Sonko received the party’s full registration certificate from the Registrar of Political Parties amid cheers from hundreds of supporters.

“This is the party to watch,” he told reporters. “We are building a movement that will help form the next government through economic transformation.”

Sonko is party leader, with Naomi Chebet Masai and Anthony Manyara are deputies, and John Muchai Nyamu is national chairperson.

He promised an inclusive platform welcoming Gen Z to elders and announced university tours next year to recruit youth. While NEDP plans a presidential candidate, Sonko said the flag-bearer will be chosen democratically and “it is not a must that it be Sonko.”

The comeback is clouded by his 2020 Senate impeachment for gross misconduct, upheld by the Supreme Court in 2022. Sonko insists the process was unfair and is pursuing a case at the East African Court of Justice.

He dismissed claims NEDP is an opposition spoiler, saying: “We are a party of our own.”

Separately, the Tax Appeals Tribunal ordered the Kenya Revenue Authority to unfreeze his accounts over disputed Sh574 million ($4.4 million) taxes pending appeal.

Analysts say Sonko still commands strong support among urban youth and low-income voters. His ability to run in 2027 hinges on overturning the impeachment ban.

For now, the flamboyant politician widely known as the “people’s governor” is firmly back in the national spotlight.