Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko insists no law compels him to pick a deputy, adding that he still needs time to consult his party leadership on the probable principal assistant.

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Appearing before Senate Devolution Committee on Wednesday, Sonko termed nomination of Deputy Governor 'non issue', adding that he's still acting within the law.

"I have tried to nominate someone but it was rejected. I have no control over county assembly while playing their oversight role," Mr Sonko said in reference to Miguna Miguna.

Last year, Sonko nominated estranged Kenyan lawyer Miguna Miguna but the assembly rejected his name. Since then, several women have shown interest to deputise him.

But Mr Sonko insists President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto will have a say in his pick. Senate enacted a law that allows governors to pick deputies, sealing a lacuna that existed before.

"Nairobi govern ship doesn't belong to me but to the party hence I have to consult," Sonko added.

"The law is silent on what happens when a nominee has been rejected. In fact I need your help as senators," Mr Sonko said.

In 2018, his deputy Polycarb Igathe quit his position citing frustrations. Mr Igathe has since joined Equity Bank. They had agreed that he handles financial issues in the county while Sonko rides on political aspects.

The acrimonious fallout has seen Sonko act without a deputy for 15 months. His body language also manifests aspects of disinterest. Senator Johnson Sakaja has been pushing to have the seat filled.