Saumu Mbuvi dismisses claims she went to rehab for drug addiction
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s daughter, Saumu Mbuvi, has spoken out to set the record straight regarding rumours that she was admitted to a rehabilitation centre for drug addiction.
In a statement on Instagram on Thursday, October 30, 2025, Saumu dismissed the claims as false and deeply hurtful, clarifying that while she has battled bipolar disorder, she has never struggled with substance abuse.
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“Lately, so much has been said about me, things that cut deeply, especially because they came from people I love. I’ve been called names, judged, and misunderstood by many who never stopped to ask what I was truly going through.”
Saumu revealed that her decision to seek professional help was purely for mental health support and not related to addiction.
“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, but because I was fighting to find myself again,” she explained.
Also watch: Medical practitioners appeal to the government to roll out programs to support bipolar victims
The mother of two expressed disappointment at being shamed for seeking healing, especially by those close to her, saying the experience had taught her the value of resilience and self-compassion.
“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.
Message of hope
Saumu used her platform to encourage others battling mental health challenges not to give up or feel ashamed for seeking help.
“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 said.
Further, Saumu reaffirmed her commitment to continue her healing journey with grace, faith, and courage.
“I may be bruised, but I am not destroyed. Even through tears, I choose grace over bitterness, and truth over silence. My story isn’t one of shame; it’s one of survival, courage, and faith. And I know that with time, God will turn even this pain into purpose. It’s okay not to be okay,” she concluded.
