Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and his entire immediate family have been banned from entering the United States with immediate effect. The announcement was made on Tuesday the 8th of March, at the US Embassy in Nairobi.  The Counselor for Public Affairs Eric Watinik, stated the ban was in connection to his “involvement in significant corruption” during his tenure as governor.

“The United States will continue to use all tools available to combat corruption and promote respect for human rights globally,” Mr. Watinik. The ban not only affects their entry but also any form of business the family may have been or intending to partake in the country. The declaration is in accordance with the provisions of Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act 2020.

In his response, Mike Sonko, claims the ban is in connection to his announcement of seeking to retake his former seat in the upcoming election. He pleaded with the American government to change their decision and also investigate their ambassadors in the country claiming they are friends with “fraudsters.”