The National Economic Development Party (NEDP) is facing internal turmoil as its leader Mike Sonko has accused senior party officials of illegally demanding money from candidates and members seeking opportunities within the organization.
Through a formal statement shared on social media, Sonko declared an immediate halt to all party registration activities and operations while the leadership works to resolve what he described as mounting internal issues jeopardizing the party’s progress.
“We are suspending all our registration activities and operations as we address increasing concerns about certain members and officials illegally demanding payment for registration and providing opportunities to candidates,” Sonko stated.
The former Nairobi Governor specifically named one official, linking him to complaints made by aspiring candidates from Kwale County.
Sonko revealed that multiple party candidates had reached out to him, reporting they were being required to pay money to secure nomination under the party banner.
“Candidates contacted me to express frustration over being asked to pay money to become party nominees. This is unacceptable,” he emphasized.
The dispute also encompassed recent party activities in Kwale, specifically during the inauguration of NEDP offices in Ukunda, where Sonko alleged officials deviated from established party protocols.
He claimed that two officials unilaterally announced county leadership appointments without consulting the party’s central leadership.
“We must clarify that no individuals have been elected or formally appointed to leadership positions within the Kwale County party structure at this time,” Sonko clarified.
“All county leadership roles will be filled through a free, fair, and democratic process conducted by the party. Consequently, any positions declared today are considered invalid and revoked until the official party procedure is completed.”
Sonko also indicated that efforts to resolve internal concerns had instead provoked resistance within the party and online confrontations.
“My error was heeding the legitimate grievances of loyal candidates and members, including women who expressed their dissatisfaction,” he admitted.
He cautioned against what he characterized as self-serving interests that could undermine the party’s integrity.
“This party will not tolerate the appointment or endorsement of leaders by fiat. Leaders must be selected by party members and the public, not by individuals,” Sonko declared.
“We will not permit a small number of self-interested individuals to divert our party from its purpose.”
These recent revelations highlight deepening divisions within NEDP as the party administration confronts intensifying demands to settle internal conflicts and rebuild trust among its members and potential candidates.
In recent remarks, Sonko reaffirmed the party’s dedication to what he termed fairness, transparency, and inclusivity while emphasizing that no officials have received formal appointments to leadership roles in Kwale County.