Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has officially launched the National Economic Development Party (NEDP), marking a significant milestone in his renewed bid to re-enter Kenya’s political arena ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sonko received the Certificate of Full Registration for NEDP on Tuesday at the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) in Nairobi, sealing the party’s transition from provisional to fully recognized status. The event, attended by party officials, supporters and media, was punctuated by Sonko’s characteristic flamboyance — but also a clear message of political intent.
Who is Mike Sonko?
Mike Mbuvi Gideon Kioko, popularly known as Mike Sonko, is a Kenyan politician, businessman, and former Nairobi Governor. Rising to national prominence after winning the Makadara by-election in 2010, he went on to serve as Nairobi Senator and later as the county’s second governor. Sonko is known for his flamboyant style, populist appeal, and extensive charitable work, particularly through the Sonko Rescue Team. Despite his 2020 impeachment and ongoing legal battles, he remains an influential figure in Kenyan politics. In 2025, he launched the National Economic Development Party (NEDP), marking a new chapter in his political journey.
A Platform for Political Rebirth
The launch of NEDP signals what many analysts view as a carefully orchestrated political comeback. Mike Sonko, who was impeached as Nairobi Governor in 2020, has spent the past few years largely outside active office but vocal on national issues. With NEDP now formally registered, he gains a new platform through which to mobilize support, shape political narratives and potentially contest for public office.
“This is the party to watch,” Sonko said during the unveiling, positioning NEDP as a movement built on economic transformation, inclusive development, and youth empowerment. He promised a grassroots-driven agenda aimed at addressing unemployment, expanding economic opportunities and improving access to essential services.
A Party Built on Economic Promises
NEDP’s ideological framework, as outlined during the launch, focuses heavily on economic revival. Sonko said the party intends to champion policies that uplift low-income households, stimulate small businesses, and promote national development through infrastructure investment.
According to Mike Sonko, the new party aims to provide an alternative to traditional political outfits that, in his view, have failed to deliver meaningful change. He invited youth, women and marginalized groups to join what he described as a “broad national movement for economic renewal.”
Leadership and Structure
NEDP’s interim leadership team includes Chairman Dr. John Nyamu, alongside several deputies and organizing officials expected to steer the party during its formative phase. Sonko remains the de facto party leader, though he emphasized that a national delegates conference scheduled for early 2026 will elect a permanent leadership structure.
Analysts note that this approach is intended to portray NEDP as a democratic and people-centered political house, rather than a one-man vehicle — a perception Sonko is keen to avoid.
Legal and Political Hurdles Ahead
Despite the momentum surrounding NEDP’s launch, Sonko’s political future remains intertwined with ongoing legal battles. His 2020 impeachment was upheld by the Supreme Court, effectively barring him from holding public office. Sonko, however, has signaled his intent to seek a judicial review, citing a favourable finding by the East African Court of Justice, which questioned the legality of his removal.
Should the courts revisit the matter, the outcome will significantly shape both Sonko’s personal ambitions and NEDP’s prospects in the 2027 elections.
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A New Wildcard in the 2027 General Race
With its registration now complete, NEDP is expected to embark on a nationwide recruitment drive, policy consultations and grassroots mobilisation. Political observers suggest that the party could appeal to younger voters seeking alternatives to Kenya’s established political dynasties.
Whether NEDP will evolve into a major political force or remain centered around Sonko’s personality will depend on the party’s ability to build structures, articulate a compelling manifesto and navigate Kenya’s shifting alliances.
The launch of the National Economic Development Party marks a pivotal moment in Mike Sonko’s political journey. While his legal hurdles remain unresolved, the former governor has firmly reinserted himself into Kenya’s political conversation. As the 2027 election cycle begins to take shape, NEDP’s emergence adds a new dimension to an already dynamic landscape — and positions Sonko once again at the center of national attention.