Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has removed Geoffrey Mosiria from his county government position days after the chief officer declared his intention to challenge him in the 2027 General Election.
The decision was announced on Wednesday, October 21, through a county circular signed by County Secretary Machel Waikenda. The changes took immediate effect and affected three county chief officers.
Zipporah Njeri Mwangi was appointed acting Chief Officer for Public Participation, Citizen Engagement and Customer Service. She will retain her existing responsibilities in the City Culture, Arts and Tourism department.
Although the county notice outlined administrative changes, Mosiria’s removal comes amid growing tensions between him and Sakaja. The former chief officer had publicly declared his gubernatorial ambitions earlier in October.
Mosiria’s 2027 Ambitions Put Him on Collision Course With Sakaja
Mosiria announced his intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat on October 11. He cited his experience across several county departments as preparation for the position.
He also presented himself as a candidate capable of improving service delivery in the capital. His declaration placed him among those seeking to challenge Sakaja in the next election.
The timing of his removal has therefore drawn attention to the relationship between political ambition and public service appointments.
However, the county circular did not explicitly state that Mosiria’s gubernatorial bid prompted the decision. The link between the two developments remains a matter of political interpretation.
Mosiria Alleges Disputes Over Public Funds
Before his removal, Mosiria had publicly discussed his strained relationship with the governor. He claimed that disagreements over public funds and service delivery contributed to the fallout.
In previous remarks, he also questioned changes to financial management in the county health department. Mosiria said he had raised concerns about decisions affecting the management of public resources.
These claims have added another dimension to the dispute. However, the allegations require independent verification, and the county administration’s position on the specific accusations should also be established.
Mosiria has separately defended his record against allegations concerning the handling of medicines during his time in the health docket. He has denied wrongdoing and maintained that he served Nairobi residents diligently.
What Mosiria’s Exit Means for Nairobi Politics
Mosiria’s removal could reshape his political strategy as he prepares for the 2027 contest. Outside the county administration, he may now focus more directly on building support among Nairobi residents.
His next steps will determine how he translates his public profile into a broader political campaign. Meanwhile, Sakaja faces the task of maintaining service delivery as the political contest takes shape.
For Nairobi residents, the central issues remain familiar. Waste collection, water access, healthcare and other county services continue to shape public expectations.
The governor’s administration will ultimately face scrutiny over its performance. Mosiria, meanwhile, will need to demonstrate how his proposed leadership would address the city’s challenges.
With the 2027 election approaching, the fallout highlights the growing political competition surrounding Nairobi’s top county seat. The battle is taking shape well before voters head to the ballot.
