Why Sonko moves to block degazettement of Capitol Hill Police Station

File imag of Mike Sonko former Nairobi Governor at Capitol hill police station

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has moved to court seeking to block the proposed degazettement of Capitol Hill Police Station, warning that the move could compromise security in the Upper Hill area.

In a statement, Sonko said he had instructed his lawyers to urgently file a petition challenging the decision, citing various constitutional provisions, including Articles 22, 23, 10, 247 and 258 of the Constitution of Kenya.

“As a resident of Upper Hill, and pursuant to the Constitution, I have instructed my lawyers to move to court with urgency to challenge and block the proposed degazettement of Capitol Hill Police Station,” he said.

“We cannot and will not allow the security of Upper Hill to be compromised.”

Sonko described Upper Hill as a critical nerve centre of the country, noting that it hosts key government offices, financial institutions, hospitals, courts and diplomatic missions.

He warned that removing or downgrading the police station would expose the area to heightened security risks.

“Upper Hill is not just any location; it is a critical nerve centre of our nation,” he said.

“Weakening security in such a strategic area is not just reckless—it is a grave risk to lives, critical institutions, and the economic stability of our country.”

The area is home to major institutions such as Milimani Law Courts, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and leading health facilities including Kenyatta National Hospital and The Nairobi Hospital.

It also hosts the headquarters of top banks and insurance firms, alongside international hotels and various government ministries.

Sonko further noted that embassies, religious institutions, schools and commercial hubs are concentrated in the area, making it a high-security zone that requires a constant police presence.

Beyond security concerns, the former governor raised legal issues tied to ongoing court cases in which he is involved, noting that Capitol Hill Police Station holds crucial records linked to the proceedings.

“Capitol Hill Police Station holds crucial records, including OB No. 17/26/07/2025, which I rely on in my ongoing case,” he said.

“The OCS has already testified, more officers are expected to testify, and there is a real possibility that the court may need to visit the station physically.”

He added that another case in which he is the complainant, reported under OB No. 02/17/01/2026, is currently under investigation at the same station, raising concerns over the continuity and integrity of evidence if the station is degazetted.

“Any attempt to remove or weaken this vital security installation is a direct threat to justice, public safety, and the rule of law,” Sonko said.

“We must stand firm. We must protect our people. We must defend our institutions. And we must do so at all costs,” he added.