However, the court found that he has a case to answer in relation to irregular tender awards during his tenure at City Hall, setting the stage for a separate legal battle over procurement decisions made under his administration.
Delivering the ruling, the court stated that the evidence presented by the prosecution on the money laundering allegations was largely circumstantial and did not meet the threshold required for conviction.
The judge noted inconsistencies in witness testimonies and a lack of direct financial trails tying Sonko to the alleged laundering of public funds.
As a result, he was formally acquitted of all counts related to money laundering.
Despite the acquittal, the court did not clear him entirely.
On the second set of charges relating to procurement irregularities, the judge ruled that there was sufficient evidence to require Sonko to be placed on his defence.
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The allegations revolve around the alleged unlawful awarding of tenders during his time as Nairobi Governor, with prosecutors arguing that due process was not followed in several county contracts.
According to the prosecution, certain tenders were allegedly awarded without competitive bidding, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of public resources at City Hall.
The defence, however, has maintained that Sonko was not directly involved in procurement decisions, arguing that such responsibilities were delegated to technical officers within the county government.
The ruling marks a significant turning point in the long-running legal saga involving the former governor, who has faced multiple court battles since his impeachment from office.
Legal analysts say the acquittal on money laundering charges is a major relief for Sonko, but caution that the remaining procurement case could still carry serious legal and political implications depending on its outcome.
Sonko, who has remained a controversial yet influential political figure, has in the past consistently denied all wrongdoing, insisting that he was being targeted for political reasons.
His supporters have welcomed the acquittal, describing it as vindication, while urging that the remaining charges also be dismissed for lack of merit.
The case is expected to proceed to the defence stage in the coming weeks, where Sonko and his legal team will present evidence to counter the prosecution’s allegations on tender irregularities.
The outcome of the case is likely to attract significant public and political attention, given Sonko’s prominence in Nairobi politics and his continued influence in Kenya’s broader political landscape.
