Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has strongly denied allegations that he abandoned legendary Kenyan boxer Conjestina Achieng, following a viral video that showed her in distress on the streets of Yala.
The clip, which circulated widely in early May 2026, captured the former champion appearing disoriented and asking for help.
In the footage, she claimed that Sonko had told her to “go away,” sparking public outrage and renewed concern over her wellbeing.
But in a series of responses shared online, Sonko has pushed back firmly, insisting that he has not only continued to support her but has once again stepped in to facilitate her return to rehabilitation.
Addressing the claims, Sonko dismissed suggestions that he cut ties with Conjestina, arguing that he has consistently funded her treatment and recovery efforts over the years.
According to him, he has personally covered the costs of multiple rehabilitation programmes and hospital stays, including facilities in Diani and Nairobi. He maintains that his involvement has been hands-on and sustained, even as challenges persist.
“I have never chased her away or abandoned her,” Sonko said in his response, adding that the situation has been misrepresented online.
A central part of Sonko’s defence is his claim that Conjestina’s recovery has been repeatedly disrupted by decisions made outside his control, particularly by her family.
“It hurts to hear people say I chased her away—that is not true. The last time I saw her was in December when her family came for her with filmmakers. Since then, she has not been brought back,” he shared.
He alleges that on several occasions, she was taken back to her rural home in Siaya against medical advice, interrupting structured rehabilitation programmes. According to Sonko, these disruptions have contributed to a cycle of relapse that has made long-term recovery difficult.
The former governor described the situation as frustrating, saying that efforts to stabilise her condition are often “watered down” when she leaves controlled care environments.
“This time, I will not take her back. Let the family take responsibility and understand why we insisted on proper care…..Whenever she is with us, she gets better. But when she leaves, things fall apart,” Sonko said.
He revealed that he has spent significant amounts on Conjestina’s treatment over time, highlighting the high cost of mental health care and rehabilitation services.
Conjestina, once celebrated as one of the country’s most successful boxers, has struggled with personal challenges in recent years, highlighting gaps in post-career support, mental health services, and rehabilitation continuity.
