In a rare show of political unity, Johnson Sakaja and former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko have joined forces to support former Nairobi Governor Anne Kananu.
The unexpected collaboration between the two Nairobi political figures has drawn public attention, with many Kenyans praising the leaders for putting aside their differences to stand with Kananu during one of the most difficult moments in her life.
Kananu’s mother passed away on May 4, 2026, after a prolonged illness. According to statements shared by leaders close to the family, she had been battling cancer and spent significant time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) before her death.
The prolonged treatment reportedly left the family with substantial medical bills, prompting Sonko and Sakaja to mobilise support for funeral arrangements and hospital expenses.
The reconciliation between Sonko and Sakaja became evident after the former governor paid a courtesy visit to Sakaja at his Riverside Drive office. The two leaders later travelled together to Kananu’s residence to personally condole with the family.
Images and videos from the meeting quickly circulated online, surprising many Nairobi residents who have long viewed the two leaders as political rivals.
During the visit, Sonko emphasised the importance of humanity over politics, saying leaders should support one another during moments of grief regardless of their political affiliations.
The former governor also spoke openly about the scale of the medical debt left behind after Kananu’s mother’s treatment, describing it as overwhelming for the family.
As part of the support initiative, Sonko launched a fundraising mobilisation campaign aimed at helping clear the hospital bills while also assisting with burial preparations.
The initiative is expected to extend beyond the two leaders, with other current and former Nairobi political figures also joining the support campaign.
Kananu herself has largely remained out of the public spotlight since leaving office, but news of her mother’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from political leaders, supporters, and Nairobi residents.
Several leaders have described the late matriarch as a strong and resilient woman who fought her illness courageously until the very end.
The support from Sakaja and Sonko is expected to play a significant role in easing both the emotional and financial burden facing the former governor’s family.
