Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has promised to help comedian and fashion designer Sammy Kioko recover the KSh 19 million that he claims is owed to him by the Machakos County Government.
Speaking during a phone interview on The Obinna Live Show, Sonko said he was ready to step in and mediate between Kioko and Governor Wavinya Ndeti to ensure justice is done.
“How much is the county owing him? Does he have proof of delivery? Send him to me because the governor and I respect each other,” Sonko said. “Let him come so we can talk to the governor and see how he can be helped. Maybe the county is broke, but even if it means paying in instalments, I can help him.”
Kioko, visibly emotional, broke down during the same interview as he shared how the delayed payment had deeply affected his life. He revealed that his tailoring business had collapsed, his staff lost jobs, and he could not pay hospital bills for his ailing sister.
“It’s painful. We’re struggling to raise money for my sister’s treatment while they’re sitting on our payment. If the government had paid me, she wouldn’t be sick without treatment,” he said tearfully.
Kioko claims that he completed an embroidery tender nearly two years ago but has never been paid. However, Governor Wavinya’s office denied the claims, calling them “politically motivated lies.”
Despite the county’s denial, Kioko insists he has receipts and proof of delivery, supported by his colleagues who worked on the project.
Sonko’s offer has given hope to Kioko and his supporters, who now believe the former governor’s intervention might finally bring a solution to the long-standing dispute.
BY TV47