Former Nairobi Governor fights to compel key witnesses, claiming their testimony is crucial to dismantling the Ksh.20 million corruption charges against him.

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has launched a fresh legal offensive in his ongoing Ksh.20 million graft case, demanding that the court compel lawyer Steve Ogolla and Capitol Hill OCS Tusca Opondo to testify. Through his lawyer Asa Nyakundi, Sonko argues that these witnesses hold the key to unlocking the truth behind the charges leveled against him.

This move signals a strategic pivot in Sonko’s defense, as he seeks to expose alleged inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. By calling these specific witnesses, Sonko aims to shine a light on the procedural maneuvers and "cooperation documents" that he claims underpin the charges against him, suggesting that the entire case may be built on shifting sands.

The Battle for Evidence

Nyakundi told the court that lawyer Steve Ogolla is in possession of three critical documents: a charge sheet, an affidavit of cooperation, and a statement. The defense contends that there are discrepancies in the charge sheets—one drafted before a complainant was listed as a co-accused, and another issued after the complainant was dropped. This sequence, Sonko argues, raises serious questions about the integrity of the investigation.

Furthermore, the defense is demanding that OCS Tusca Opondo produce records linked to statements Sonko made during the investigation at Capitol Hill Police Station. "This evidence goes to the heart of the first accused person's defense and is necessary for the court to arrive at a fair and just decision," Nyakundi submitted. The defense insists that summoning these witnesses will not prejudice the prosecution but is essential for a fair trial.

• Questionable Timeline: The defense is zeroing in on why charge sheets were altered in relation to the complainant's status, hinting at potential manipulation of the legal process.
• Police Records: The demand for the OCS's records suggests Sonko believes there are recorded statements that contradict the current prosecution narrative.

A High-Stakes Gamble

The prosecution has yet to fully respond to this new demand, but the stakes could not be higher. If the court grants Sonko's application, the testimony of Ogolla and Opondo could expose procedural flaws that might unravel the entire case. For Sonko, who has fought numerous legal battles, this is a calculated attempt to turn the tables on his accusers.

The court’s decision on this application will be a pivotal moment in a trial that has already seen its fair share of drama. If granted, the testimony of Ogolla and Opondo could reshape the narrative of the entire case, potentially vindicating the embattled former governor.