Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko on Friday, January 12, leaked audio recordings detailing his fallout with ailing former boxer, Conjestina Achieng’.
In the revelations, which were posted on social media platform X, Sonko dismissed accusations of abandoning Conjestina. He further went on to shed light on the circumstances leading to their fallout.
Sonko had initially offered Conjestina a job after her rehabilitation in Mombasa. Videos shared by the former governor during happier times showed Conjestina accompanying the governor on various assignments in Mombasa and Nairobi.
However, in the leaked recording, Sonko shared phone call recordings with Achieng’s family, exposing a misunderstanding that led to her departure from his team.
According to Sonko, the boxer was upset over the ex-Governor’s inability to secure a plane ticket from Mombasa to Nairobi due to fully booked flights. Consequently, she traveled by bus while Sonko and his aides travelled via the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) train to reach Mombasa.
“I needed to go to court and a warrant of arrest could have been issued against me if I failed. Conjestina was upset that I did not get her a plane ticket and had put her on a bus. My team also traveled with SGR” Sonko explained.
Allegedly expressing displeasure upon arrival, Achieng then demanded to return home to Siaya.
Sonko further contends that the family’s decision to recall Conjestina back home hindered her rehabilitation under his care.
Sonko further defended himself in response to photos of Conjestina circulating on social media showing the boxer in poor health. He further highlighted that he had opposed the family’s decision to recall Conjestina from his care as they were not prepared to monitor her health well.
“Others were criticising and accusing me of playing PR and vipindiree. I hereby wish to respond with facts as hereunder. Kenyans, I did my best to help Conje, but her family watered down my efforts,” Sonko added.
Despite facing criticism, Sonko asserts he had genuine efforts to assist Conjestina.
Veteran sports journalist Carol Radull, who visited Achieng in Siaya, revealed a decline in her lifestyle and health over two months.
Sonko has however hinted at a potential reconciliation with the boxer and her family. He further emphasized his commitment to aiding the less fortunate.
“Fortunately, my heart is bigger than mine. At times, I fail to control it for the love I have for the people, especially the less fortunate. I think this is the reason I initially gave Conjee the first, second, and now maybe I will be forced to give a third and final chance,” he stated.
