Nairobi, Kenya – Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko, affectionately known as “Sonko,” has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the people of Nairobi, this time rescuing over 210 mothers stranded at Mama Lucy Hospital. In a dramatic early morning intervention, Sonko swooped in to alleviate the plight of these new mothers, who were unable to be discharged due to outstanding hospital bills.
Word of the mothers’ predicament reached Sonko, who, using undisclosed means, arrived at the hospital in the early hours of Tuesday dawn. Many of the mothers, having recently given birth, were facing immense hardship, unable to afford delivery and treatment charges. Some had been abandoned by their partners or relatives, leaving them in a desperate situation.
Sonko’s intervention was immediate and decisive. He personally settled all maternal charges, totaling an estimated two million shillings, with the hospital board also contributing to ease the burden. In addition, recognizing the ongoing needs of the mothers, Sonko provided them with essential services, including covering their NHIF contributions and offering stipends to support them during their transition home. He also arranged for ambulances equipped with rescue and emergency services to transport the overjoyed mothers safely to their homes – a gesture that has been lauded as unprecedented in recent Nairobi leadership.
Addressing the mothers, Sonko, who himself hails from a humble background, empathized with their struggles. “I know what it means to lack money. I also came from a poor background. That’s why I don’t want to see this happen to any woman,” he declared. He further collected personal details from each mother, promising to follow up on their well-being and reiterate his commitment to supporting their healthcare needs.
This act of compassion is just the latest in a long line of philanthropic endeavors by the former Governor. Throughout his political career, which began with his election as MP for Makadara before becoming Nairobi Senator and subsequently Governor, Sonko has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to serving the less fortunate. His widely-recognized Sonko Rescue Team has provided vital assistance in various emergencies, including assisting those who have lost loved ones with funeral arrangements. He has also been a steadfast provider of relief supplies to Nairobi’s informal settlements, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and other disasters. His commitment goes beyond aid provision, supporting rehabilitation initiatives for Kenyans struggling with drug abuse, with Congestina Achieng being a notable example. Furthermore, he has adopted children and supported numerous others with their education.
Political analysts note that Sonko’s actions resonate deeply with a significant portion of the Kenyan population. His hands-on approach and genuine empathy for the vulnerable have earned him widespread respect and admiration. “Sonko has the heart of nearly 80% of Kenyans, and should he make a political comeback, he is likely to make things hard for some political figures in Nairobi and Kenya,” commented one analyst.
The sentiment on the ground is palpable. “Sonko is a down-to-earth leader who mingles with the poor and has ears for the ills bedeviling most Kenyans,” remarked a group of boda boda operators along Ngong Road. “He recently came to the aid of Mathare landslide victims, offering funeral and all accrued mortuary bills.” Mama Selina at the Kawangware open-air market echoed the sentiment, stating, “For Nairobi without Sonko, life becomes unbearable. We want such leaders. He should come back to continue helping Nairobians.”
With political maneuvering underway, many anticipate a potential return to the political arena for Mike Sonko. As Samson Wire, political reporter at the Siaya Today, aptly observes, “With political mark timings, Nairobi is pregnant and awaits Mike Sonko alias Kabumba’s comeback. The trooping is expected.” The latest act of generosity at Mama Lucy Hospital further solidifies Sonko’s image as a champion of the people, and a force to be reckoned with in Kenyan politics.
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