Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s decision to leave the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has introduced a new dimension to the capital city’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The governor officially joined ODM on Monday, declaring his intention to defend his Nairobi seat on the party’s ticket while maintaining his support for President William Ruto.
The move ends speculations about Sakaja’s political future, following his growing association with ODM leaders and activities since he took over leadership of the city.
Speaking after being received at the party’s headquarters, Chungwa House, Sakaja attributed his decision to the influence of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying he had personally encouraged him to join the party.
“Kwa sababu yeye mwenyewe ndio aliniambia nikuje ODM,” Sakaja said.
He recalled a meeting with women leaders before Raila travelled to the African Union, during which the former Prime Minister advised him to join ODM and emphasised the need for Nairobi to remain politically strong.
Sakaja said his decision was consistent with Raila’s advice, adding that he was committed to strengthening the party’s presence in the capital.
“Baba alisema aje? Nairobi ikaye imara. Na Nairobi lazima ikaye imara,”
ALSO READ:How Kakamega Plans to Move Beyond Raw Hides into Leather Manufacturing
Balancing ODM membership and support for Ruto
One of the key questions arising from Sakaja’s decision is how he intends to balance his new party affiliation with his continued support for President William Ruto.
Despite leaving UDA, the governor expressed gratitude to the President and even pledged to continue backing his leadership from within ODM.
“We will support Ruto, mimi nitazidi kumshikilia mkono and I will support him from ODM,” He added.
His position points to the continued cooperation between the two parties under the broad based government arrangement, which brings together leaders from ODM and UDA.
For Nairobi politics, the arrangement introduces an interesting dynamic, with the county governor now belonging to a different party from the one on whose ticket he was elected in 2022, while maintaining political support for the head of the national government.
ODM’s Nairobi leadership faces a new political test
Sakaja’s entry into ODM also raises questions about the party’s internal arrangements, particularly the contest for its Nairobi gubernatorial ticket.
The governor’s decision to join the party comes at a time when other political leaders have expressed interest in the city’s top county seat.
Among them is Makadara MP George Aladwa, who has also been associated with the ODM gubernatorial race. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has equally featured in discussions surrounding the contest.
Sakaja’s arrival therefore presents ODM with the task of managing competing political interests as aspirants position themselves ahead of the next election.
While joining the party gives the governor an opportunity to seek its ticket, it does not automatically guarantee him the nomination.
How ODM handles the competing ambitions will be closely watched, particularly by its Nairobi supporters and grassroots leaders.
ALSO READ:Taita Taveta Dairy Farmers Eye Bigger Market Through Planned Farmer Led KCC Miritini Plant
Meeting Oburu as he embraces Raila’s legacy
Later on Monday evening, Sakaja met ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga at his Nairobi residence, where he was formally welcomed into the party.
The governor expressed gratitude for the reception, pledging to work with the party leadership and members to strengthen ODM and advance its ideals.
He also said he looked forward to building on Raila’s legacy, particularly his commitment to social justice and inclusive leadership.
The meeting marked another step in Sakaja’s transition into the party as he seeks to establish working relationships with its national leadership.
What does the move mean for Nairobi residents?
Beyond party politics, Sakaja’s new political alignment raises questions about how the changes will influence the running of Nairobi County.
ODM has had a significant presence in the Nairobi County Assembly, where cooperation between the governor’s administration and elected representatives has been important in advancing county business.
Sakaja’s entry into the party could reshape these political relationships, although its impact on the Assembly and county administration will depend on how the new arrangement works in practice.
For residents, the focus remains on whether political cooperation will translate into improved service delivery, better roads, efficient waste management, accessible healthcare, affordable housing and effective management of the city’s resources.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, Sakaja has settled the question of which party he intends to belong to.
However, the question of ODM’s gubernatorial ticket, the party’s internal relationships and the governor’s working relationship with other political leaders remain important issues.
ALSO READ:Dispute erupts over demolition of kiosks at Nairobi Funeral Home
Leave a Reply