What a phenomenal political career Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has had for the last 10 years!
Before making his political breakthrough in 2010, Sonko was a relatively an unknown person in the country. Today, the flamboyant county chief is a source of admiration. Ignore his brand of politics. Sonko has had more of the most successful political careers in the country.
Before that hotly contested Makadara by-election of 2010 that officially ushered Sonko into politics, the man who would later become very popular in the capital, was just a successful businessman. Very few people gave him a chance. A political novice contesting against the heavyweights in the capital. Maybe his was a joke taken too far.
The voters were, however, with him. He triumphed after trouncing Reuben Ndolo and Dick Wathika. Soon enough, Sonko became an instant hit in politics.
For a young man in city politics, his huge following was only a sign of good things to come. When the 2013 election came, Sonko successfully contested the Nairobi Senatorial seat, beating ODM's Margaret Wanjiru. In short, Sonko was simply unstoppable.
At the peak of his popularity, Sonko ran for Nairobi Governor seat. With the incumbent Evans Kidero as his main challenger, the then-Senator confirmed his political might when he easily won the seat. In just seven years, Sonko had become very powerful, famous and popular. Facing Sonko in an election is probably every politician's biggest fear because he can easily thrash you.
From MP to Senator to Governor, all in just nine years. All in the capital city. Sonko is surely the most successful politician in the country since the start of this decade. There are other politicians who have had very fruitful times in politics, but Sonko stands out. Why? No one gave him a chance. He emerged from "nowhere". And most importantly, his generous heart has touched many lives.
After successful last 10 years, what is in store for Nairobi Governor? Time will tell.