NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has said “Baby James” will remain under his care after the child allegedly declined to return to his relatives in Kisii, escalating a growing dispute over custody and guardianship.
In a statement issued on Easter Monday, Sonko said he had initially made arrangements to take the minor back to Kisii following a request from family members, but changed course after the child refused to leave.
“Last night, I made arrangements to take Baby James back to Kisii. However, as I calmly prepared him, following his uncle’s request and without applying any pressure, the child clearly and firmly refused. He chose to remain under my care,” Sonko said.
He added that he respected the child’s wishes and would continue providing care, maintaining that his priority remained the boy’s well-being and stability.
The remarks come amid rising public debate over the child’s future, with sections of the extended family reportedly pushing for his return to Kisii while others support Sonko’s continued guardianship.
The matter has largely unfolded on social media, drawing public attention and competing claims.
Sonko dismissed circulating claims about the dispute as misinformation, warning against what he described as attempts to exploit the situation.
“Not everything seen on social media reflects the truth. What began as a small matter has been deliberately distorted by individuals with personal interests, to the extent of dragging an innocent child into unnecessary public drama,” he said.
He further cautioned that any efforts to use the child for “clout, blackmail, or intimidation” would not be tolerated, while simultaneously adopting a conciliatory tone toward relatives.
“Anyone from his extended family, including grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins who wishes to follow his progress or visit him is welcome. I will even be ready to facilitate this, including covering travel expenses from Kisii to Nairobi and back,” Sonko said.
The situation has raised broader questions around custody, family rights and the best interests of the child, particularly given the absence of confirmed court proceedings determining formal guardianship.
Baby James first came into the public spotlight following a tragic incident in Mathare, where he reportedly witnessed the killing of his father, leaving him orphaned and traumatised.
Sonko later took him in, pledging to support his upbringing and provide a stable environment.
Since then, the former governor has indicated he has facilitated education, counselling, and general welfare support for the child.
However, the involvement of extended family members has introduced new complexities regarding long-term guardianship and the child’s connection to his biological relatives.
Legal experts note that custody matters involving minors are typically determined based on the “best interests of the child” principle under Kenyan law, often requiring court oversight where disputes arise among caregivers and family members.
While no formal litigation has been publicly confirmed, Sonko maintained that his position remains firm, saying he would not release the child against his wishes.
“My priority is to ensure that this child grows up in a safe, stable environment, with proper care and quality education,” he said.
He also urged the public to allow the child privacy and called for an end to the ongoing debate, warning that continued public scrutiny risks worsening the situation for the minor at the centre of the dispute.
