A Nairobi court has acquitted former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko of money laundering charges, handing him a significant legal reprieve in a high-profile corruption case that has spanned several years.

In its ruling, the court found that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support the money laundering allegations.

“The prosecution did not establish a prima facie case on the charge of money laundering,” the court ruled.

“Accordingly, the accused is acquitted on that count.”

However, the former governor’s legal troubles are far from over. The court determined that Sonko has a case to answer on other charges tied to the alleged irregular award of tenders during his time at City Hall.

“There is sufficient material on record requiring the accused to be placed on his defence on the remaining counts,” the court added.

The prosecution alleges that procurement processes under Sonko’s administration were manipulated to favour certain contractors, resulting in questionable awards and potential loss of public funds.

Sonko, who has consistently denied wrongdoing, has maintained that the case is politically driven.

“I have always said these charges are politically motivated,” Sonko stated outside the courtroom.

“I will continue to defend myself and prove my innocence.”

The charges against Sonko date back to 2019, when he was arrested and later charged with multiple corruption-related offences, including embezzlement of public funds, abuse of office, and money laundering. The case was investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

At the time, prosecutors alleged that millions of shillings were siphoned through fraudulent procurement deals within Nairobi County, involving senior county officials and business entities.

The case significantly impacted Sonko’s political career, culminating in his impeachment in December 2020 by the Nairobi County Assembly and the Senate.

Despite the acquittal on the money laundering charge, the court’s decision to place him on his defence means the trial will proceed, with Sonko expected to respond to the remaining allegations in the next phase.

“This is only one step in a longer legal process,” a prosecution source noted.

“The court has affirmed that key questions around procurement irregularities must still be answered.”

The ruling marks a partial victory for Sonko but leaves the broader corruption case unresolved, as the spotlight now shifts to his defence in the ongoing proceedings.