Former Mike Sonko has suspended all activities of the National Economic Development Party (NEDP) following allegations of extortion, illegal money demands, and growing internal disputes within the party.
The dramatic move comes amid rising tensions inside the party, with Sonko accusing some senior officials of exploiting aspirants and members seeking opportunities within NEDP.
In a strongly worded statement shared online, the former Nairobi governor announced the immediate suspension of party registration activities and operations as leadership attempts to address what he described as “serious internal challenges.”
Extortion Allegations Rock NEDP
According to Sonko, several party members and political aspirants contacted him with complaints that certain officials were demanding money in exchange for party registration and nomination opportunities.
“Aspirants called me and complained that they were being asked to pay money to become party aspirants. That is wrong,” Sonko reportedly stated.
The allegations have sparked fresh controversy within the party as questions emerge over transparency and accountability in NEDP’s leadership structures.
Sonko maintained that the suspension was necessary to protect the integrity of the party and restore confidence among supporters and aspiring candidates.
Sonko Targets Senior Party Officials
The former governor specifically mentioned NEDP Secretary General Ben Mulwa in connection with complaints raised by aspirants from Kwale County.
According to Sonko, party officials allegedly bypassed official procedures during recent activities in Ukunda, where county leadership positions were reportedly announced without proper consultation.
Sonko insisted that no official county leadership appointments had been approved and warned against what he termed as attempts to impose leaders unfairly.
“We wish to clarify that no one has been elected or officially nominated into the Kwale County party leadership structure at this stage,” he said.
He further declared that any leadership positions announced outside official party procedures were null and void pending a proper democratic process.
Internal Wrangles Deepen
The suspension has exposed widening divisions within NEDP as internal disagreements continue escalating.
Sonko claimed that attempts to address concerns raised by ordinary party members had instead triggered resistance from some officials and supporters.
He accused unnamed individuals of prioritizing selfish interests over the party’s mission and warned against manipulation of party structures for personal gain.
“There will be no imposition or endorsement of leaders in this party,” Sonko stated while defending the need for fair and democratic leadership processes.
Political analysts say the latest developments could affect NEDP’s efforts to strengthen its national presence ahead of future political contests.
Supporters React Online
The suspension announcement quickly triggered reactions on social media, with supporters expressing mixed opinions about the growing wrangles within the party.
Some supporters praised Sonko for taking action against alleged corruption and protecting ordinary party members from exploitation.
Others questioned whether the public fallout could damage the party’s credibility and weaken internal unity.
Political observers noted that leadership disputes and accusations of favoritism often create instability in emerging political parties.
The controversy has also fueled wider debate about accountability, transparency, and democracy within Kenyan political organizations.
Pressure Mounts on NEDP Leadership
The latest crisis now places pressure on NEDP leaders to resolve internal conflicts and restore confidence among members.
Analysts say the party risks losing support if allegations of extortion and unfair leadership practices are not addressed quickly.
The situation could also affect recruitment efforts and future political strategies as the party attempts to position itself within Kenya’s competitive political environment.
Meanwhile, Sonko insists that the suspension is temporary and aimed at cleaning up internal systems before activities resume.
Political Future Uncertain
Despite the controversy, Sonko remains one of Kenya’s most recognizable political figures with a loyal support base across different parts of the country.
His decision to suspend party activities highlights the growing tensions and challenges facing smaller political parties attempting to expand nationally.
As investigations and internal consultations continue, attention now shifts to whether NEDP can overcome the crisis and rebuild unity among its members.
For now, the party remains under intense public scrutiny as Kenyans wait to see how the leadership dispute and extortion claims will be resolved.
