Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has finally explained his curious habit of carrying 11 phones with him wherever he goes. In an exclusive interview with Oga Obinna on Obinna TV, Sonko explained that these phones are more than just communication tools; they are repositories of invaluable memories that he cannot afford to erase.
Speaking candidly during the interview, Sonko emphasized the importance of preserving his past. “These are my phones normally, simu ikijaanga memory huwa sidelete. Mimi hukaanga nayo na nanunua ingine, na mimi hupenda Samsung sana,” he said. Translating to, “When the memory on my phone is full, I don’t delete anything. I just keep it and buy another one. I really like Samsung phones.”
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The former governor revealed that each phone serves a distinct purpose and contains specific types of data, particularly throw-back pictures and records. “Zote ziko na ma TBT na marecords. they all have stories,” Sonko added, clarifying that one of them contains his distant memories when he he was first elected as a Member of Parliament
Mike Sonko’s 11 phones
Mike Sonko showcased his array of phones, which include: Samsung 1, Samsung S 24 Ultra, Samsung G4 Ultra, an iPhone, two ‘mulika mwizi’ button phones among others.
He explained the practical uses of each device. His button phones, for example, are used to avoid tracking. “Makarao wakinitafuta natumia hii (when cops trace me, I use this),” he said, referencing his use of these phones to evade police detection. He recounted his previous incident in Mombasa where he used a button phone to avoid being traced, though a close ally’s mistake with another phone led to their capture and arrest by police.
Social media and recordings
Sonko is well-known for his active presence and engagement with fans on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. His phone usage has previously sparked discussions, particularly regarding his practice of privately recording conversations during business negotiations. When questioned about this, Sonko clarified, “Tunarecord tu ma cartels peke yake,” meaning he only recorded cartel members.
Public interaction
Despite no longer holding any political office, Sonko remains accessible to the public. “Sina ofisi, Sina kazi, Mimi si MP, Women rep, but wananipigia tu bado (I don’t have any political office, I’m not an MP, or a women representative, but they still call me),” he remarked. This openness continues to endear him to many Kenyans who still seek his counsel and assistance, mostly financially.
Sonko also reveal that his different phones are called by different people, with politicians like President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition chief Raila Odinga calling to one phone, while his family and other friends call him on another phone.
