Mike Sonko’s Daughter Saumu Mbuvi Refutes Rehab Stay- “I Was Never Battling Drug Addiction”

Saumu Mbuvi, the daughter of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, has broken her silence to definitively set the record straight regarding rumors of her admission to a rehabilitation center.

In an emotional statement posted on Instagram on Thursday, October 30, 2025, Saumu strongly dismissed claims that she was in rehab for substance abuse, clarifying that her struggles have been solely related to her mental health.

The Truth Behind Seeking Help

Saumu revealed that the circulating rumors were deeply hurtful, particularly because they originated from people close to her. She confessed to being called names and feeling misunderstood by those who never inquired about her struggles.

“Lately, so much has been said about me, things that cut deeply, especially because they came from people I love… I was fighting to find myself again.”

She unequivocally stated that her decision to seek professional help was for bipolar disorder, a condition that has severely tested her.

“Yes, I’ve battled bipolar disorder, a condition that has tested me in ways words can hardly explain. But what I have never battled is drug addiction. I was never in rehab for that. I sought help for my mental health, not because I was lost in addiction,” she explained.

Choosing Grace Over Shame

The mother of two expressed profound disappointment at being shamed for attempting to heal, especially when the criticism came from her own family.

“It hurts to be shamed for trying to heal. It hurts even more when that shame comes from your own blood. But I’ve learnt that pain can be sacred, it awakens strength you didn’t know you had,” she added.

Saumu concluded with a powerful message of hope and encouragement for others battling mental health challenges, urging them not to give up or feel ashamed for seeking assistance.

“To anyone who has ever been mocked for their mental health journey, or judged for needing help: please know, you are not broken. You are human. You are worthy of understanding and love,” she stated.

She affirmed her commitment to continue her healing journey, asserting that her story is one of “survival, courage, and faith.”