Outspoken Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko's debate on irresponsible fathers could escalate in future given his recent post targeting single mothers.
Cable News Network on Monday carried a headline on Sonko's recent controversial remarks at Kibra MP Ken Okoth's burial, with interviewees seemingly supporting the popular politician.
"He revealed a lawmaker's affair at his funeral. Now he's set up a hotline to out deadbeat politician dads," read the headline.
Sonko, 44, declared at a memorial service broadcast on local television: "Ken had a son with one of the nominated Nairobi MCAs [Members of County Assembly]. The two lovebirds did not hide the fact that they shared a son as demonstrated by pictures and various documented correspondence."
According to the 2014 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), almost half of Kenyan children did not live with both biological parents and 22% of children come from single mother households even though their fathers are alive.
Despite the pensive mood at the memorial service few weeks ago, Sonko went on to unapologetically demand that the child is recognized. Okoth's widow, Monica was present.
In a bid to tame irresponsible fathers, Sonko, who admitted marrying two wives, launched a hotline where single mothers will send details of those who abandoned them.
"When sending details on which MP, Senator, Governor, Businessman has impregnated you, remember to send his full names and the position he holds plus any photos or videos of those happy moments so that we expose them," he said in another post.
The former Nairobi senator and Makadara MP threatened to name a host of politicians who have allegedly sired children out of wedlock, adding that he will do it soon.
Loved and hated in equal measures, Sonko's habit of exposing his critics through recorded phone calls and text messages, is among his venomous weapons he uses to silence detractors.