Nairobi senator Mike Sonko dismissed claims by the Sunday Standard, that he backed down from the gubernatorial race, to back former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth.

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In a statement, Sonko however did not use his senatorial tittle, but rather used 'Gov', meaning he was the County's governor, despite Dr Evans Kidero holding the position as incumbent.

Below is Sonko's Sunday statement:

''It has come to my attention that some malicious politicians are out to confuse our supporters and the great people of Nairobi City County that the Jubilee Party has struck a deal on a line up for the August elections.

Reports appearing in the Sunday Standard claiming that I have withdrawn from the gubernatorial race and accepted to be Peter Kenneth's running mate or defend my senatorial seat is a joke of the year.

I wish to urge our supporters in Team Nairobi and Jubilee Party members to ignore such propaganda aimed at confusing voters.

Further, I wish to assure my supporters that no such arrangement has been reached and that I am fully prepared and ready to face any opponent during the Jubilee Party nominations. I swear and undertake to support whoever the party members will nominate to fly the Jubilee gubernatorial flag.

On the same note, I wish to plead with my fellow competitors to concede defeat and back whoever will be picked to fly the Nairobi Jubilee gubernatorial flag.

Those invoking the name of H.E Uhuru Kenyatta for their own selfish political gains must stop forthwith.

My respect and loyalty to President remains intact and I am sure and aware that at no given time had he endorsed any candidate for the seat or any other seat.

Let us refrain from making reckless statements claiming to have the blessings of the President.

Let us conduct mature and peaceful campaigns and let the Jubilee Party members nominate a candidate of their choice.

However, attempting to impose any leader on the electorate by invoking the President's name will not be tolerated and will only backfire and give our opponent Daktari yet another chance to take control of our Great City.

It is therefore important that we pull together as Team Nairobi to ensure we deliver maximum seats in the forthcoming elections.

Signed by

Gov. Mike Mbuvi Sonko

Nairobi City County.''