A Nairobi court has acquitted former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko of money-laundering charges, marking a major relief in the long-running corruption case.

The court ruled that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence to sustain the money-laundering accusations against Sonko, leading to his acquittal on that count.

However, the former governor was not entirely cleared as the court found that he has a case to answer on other charges related to the irregular award of tenders during his tenure at City Hall.

The prosecution alleges that the tendering process was manipulated, resulting in the unlawful awarding of contracts and possible loss of public funds.

As a result, Sonko will now be required to defend himself against the remaining charges as the case proceeds to the next stage of hearing.

The ruling represents a partial victory for the former Nairobi county boss, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintained that the charges against him are politically motivated.

• A Tell Media report / By Elizabeth Were