Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and former radio presenter Andrew Kibe recently found themselves locked in an ongoing online dispute, leaving internet users speechless.
This conflict has not only triggered a deluge of highly personal and weighty accusations, as well as online memes, but has also prompted extensive speculation regarding its underlying origins.
Both individuals, having previously exposed concealed aspects of other public figures' lives, are well-versed in online conflicts. They have transformed their platforms into virtual battlegrounds, utilising revealing information to bolster their arguments and deploying an array of unconventional responses and amusing content to both astonish and amuse their audience.
Sonko appeared to be defending various Kenyan celebrities who have found themselves targeted by Kibe's critical remarks. This list included Langata MP Felix Odiwuor, aka Jalango, who began his career with a breakfast show at Classic FM before entering politics; former co-host at NRG Radio, Kamene Goro; gospel singer Bahati; and comedian Eric Omondi, among others.
The most recent individual to be targeted appeared to be the former governor himself. Many were of the opinion that the American-based blogger had finally met his match, as Sonko's stern response seemed to silence Kibe and prompt him to moderate his tone, despite having mockingly referred to Sonko as 'Bosco'.
Nevertheless, in a separate video clip, Sonko revealed that he had received invitations to participate in Kibe's live sessions, which he declined, stating that he wasn't interested in boosting Kibe's viewership for his blog.
"If Kibe wants views for money, he can come back, and I will pay him," Sonko offered. The escalating provocations between the two parties intensified the feud, with both engaging in a series of disrespectful exchanges, prompting some celebrities to join in on the discussion.
As they continue to threaten to expose each other's hidden faults, the duration of the ongoing feud between these two prominent and vociferous figures with substantial online followings remains uncertain, even though their fans appear to relish every moment of it.
Arguably two of the most outspoken personalities in the region, Sonko and Kibe have generated considerable social media attention with their weeks-long exchange of pointed remarks, delivered without restraint.
The two individuals have engaged in a personal dispute, capturing the attention of their millions of followers who eagerly await their heated exchanges filled with name-calling and threats.
Financial difficulties
The conflict appears to have escalated a few weeks ago when the extravagant politician publicly displayed stacks of cash in various denominations. Showing visible agitation, it seemed that he was addressing someone who may have insinuated that the former county leader was facing financial difficulties.
"Who claimed I don't have money? Allow me to show you genuine wealth, which is merely pocket change to me," he said, proceeding to show stacks of money that likely amounted to millions. This post incited Kibe to address the matter, seemingly a characteristic of Sonko's style. Kibe proceeded to call out Sonko, asserting that the politician fails to assist the youth by imparting knowledge on wealth creation, but rather dons expensive international brands lacking a Kenyan connection.
"Why haven't you established your own personal brand and used it to educate the youth on wealth generation, instead of flaunting designer brands?" Kibe inquired, triggering a controversial discussion.
This didn't seem to sit well with the former county boss who later shared another video urging the blogger to stay away from his private life.
In a feisty rant, he dared the blogger who relocated to the United States to return to Kenya so they can square it out in proximity.
"Keep off my life. I'm a self-made brand and what I choose to wear is my own business." He also urged the controversial blogger to stop attacking women on his platform. "Stop insulting ladies including Akothee, Millicent Omanga. Diana Marua, Karen Nyamu. It should stop."
In a rejoinder, Kibe shared a video where it is alleged there was a recording of a female's nudity.
"I think Sonko is projecting his iniquities on me. He should also accord the women the same respect." "This was a fixed match. However, I think Kibe barked the wrong tree this time. Sonko invented the game of playing dirty. Watch out AK," a fan's comment read.