NEDP party officials during the presser./SCREENGRABFresh turmoil has erupted within former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s National Economic Development Party (NEDP) after the party suspended a top official over allegations of misconduct and insubordination.
The suspension, which takes immediate effect pending disciplinary proceedings, comes amid escalating internal disputes that have recently shaken the political outfit.
According to the party leadership, the top official and several others are accused of allegedly operating outside established party structures during the opening of a party office in Kwale County.
NEDP claims the officials announced county leadership appointments without consultation or approval from the party leadership.
The party further linked the incident to alleged extortion-related claims that had earlier prompted Sonko to suspend party activities nationwide.
In a bid to steady the party, NEDP appointed Ochali Oyeyo as Acting Secretary General following consultations with founding members, according to Sonko.
Speaking during a meeting on Monday, Sonko said grassroots mobilisation and regional meetings would continue despite the ongoing internal wrangles.
“After consultations with the party's founding members, we have decided that all grassroots activities and regional meetings will continue across the country,” Sonko said.
He also cautioned supporters against sending money to individuals claiming to represent the party.
“On the issue of party registration, the process will continue, but no cash remittances should be made to individuals purporting to be our officials. Our official Paybill is 111999 and account number 000104,” he added.
Sonko thanked party members for their patience as the leadership works to resolve the disputes.
“We thank our members countrywide for their patience as we sort out issues within the party,” he said.
The former governor also called for issue-based politics, urging leaders to avoid divisive rhetoric and instead focus on the challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
“We shall do our part as a party and engage in mature politics while addressing issues affecting wananchi. We ask our President to look at the issue of fuel prices because 10 shillings is not enough and further reductions should be considered,” Sonko said.
The newly appointed Acting Secretary General, Ochali Oyeyo, pledged to strengthen the party and focus on wananchi’s concerns.
“This is the party to watch — a party for wananchi that seeks to address their needs, and we shall work with everyone from all quarters,” Oyeyo said.
