The National Economic Development Party (NEDP), led by party leader Gedion Mbuvi Kioko, alias Mike Sonko, has issued a warning dismissing claims that it is issuing direct nominations ahead of the upcoming electoral process.
In a public notice released on Tuesday afternoon, the party clarified that no direct nominations will be conducted under any circumstances, distancing itself from individuals allegedly misleading aspirants for personal gain.
“This is to warn the public and all aspirants that some individuals within our party are falsely claiming they can issue direct nominations,” read part of the notice.
According to the party, some individuals have been falsely presenting themselves as officials with the authority to issue direct nomination certificates — a move NEDP said undermines democratic values and exploits hopeful aspirants.
“Let it be clear that there will be no direct nominations in our party. NEDP believes in true democracy where every aspirant must go to the ground, mobilize supporters, and be nominated through a fair, open, and transparent process,” the statement added.
The party emphasized that it belongs to the people of Kenya and not a select group of officials, reiterating its commitment to grassroots democracy and equal opportunity for all aspirants.
NEDP further warned that any individual found misleading aspirants or extorting money under the guise of issuing direct nominations will face disciplinary and legal action.
The public notice was accompanied by a video clip shared on Mike Sonko TV and the party’s official social media pages.
In the clip, Sonko dismissed claims that taking photos with him amounts to an endorsement, stressing that no direct nomination tickets exist.
“Even those who come to take pictures with me — that is not an endorsement. I take photos with many people because I love people. It does not mean that if we take a photo with you at the party offices, you can claim you have a direct ticket. There is no such thing,” Sonko said.
He further claimed that fraudsters were attempting to infiltrate and sabotage the party, warning that while all aspirants are welcome to seek leadership positions, the party will not tolerate any form of fraud or misrepresentation.
“I see that fraudsters have been sent to sabotage this party. Aspirants are welcome, but fraud will not be tolerated,” the former Nairobi governor added.
The clarification comes amid heightened political activity as parties prepare for nominations, with NEDP urging its members and supporters to remain vigilant and uphold integrity within the political process.
