Sonko Defends Controversial Remarks In Defamation Suit Claims He Acted To Safeguard Widow From Estate Mismanagement

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has strongly defended his 2014 television statements that form the basis of an ongoing defamation case filed against him by advocate Lucy Momanyi.

Sonko appeared before Justice Janet Mulwa at the Milimani High Court on Monday where he testified that his remarks during the KTN Morning Express interview were made in good faith to protect the widow of the late James Simon Bellhouse from alleged irregularities in the administration of her late husband's estate.

The defamation suit stems from comments Sonko made in the 2014 live broadcast in which he allegedly called Momanyi a thief and made other claims that the advocate says damaged her professional reputation before a national audience. Momanyi serves as co-administrator of the estate of the deceased James Simon Bellhouse.

During his testimony Sonko explained that concerns had been raised about the handling of the estate including issues of undisclosed properties. He stated that the widow had approached him and complained about the manner in which the estate was being managed.

"I spoke freely on the morning show. What I said were things I believed to be true," Sonko told the court.

He further insisted that his intervention was necessary to highlight alleged mismanagement and ensure justice for the rightful beneficiaries. Sonko added that without his actions the widow would still be suffering today.

The former governor revealed that the widow had lodged formal complaints with the Law Society of Kenya the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and had also reported alleged threats to the police. However he admitted that he did not personally record any statement with the authorities and was not aware whether Momanyi had ever faced any criminal charges related to the matter.

Sonko maintained that he appeared on the television program not only to address negative media reports against him including questions over a past fraud case in which he was acquitted but also to bring to public attention the issues surrounding the estate administration. He claimed to have had supporting documents some of which were presented during the 2014 broadcast.

His lawyer led him through the testimony as he argued that the statements were truthful and aimed at protecting a vulnerable widow and other beneficiaries rather than intended to injure Momanyi's reputation.

The court is now examining whether Sonko's remarks amounted to defamation or constituted fair comment made in the public interest to address genuine concerns over the estate.

The hearing remains ongoing with further proceedings expected as both sides present their arguments on the matter.