Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri plans to seek the Nairobi governor seat in 2027.
The Kasarani MP plans to contest on a UDA ticket as Governor Johnson Sakaja turns to ODM for his re-election bid.
Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri joins UDA as he prepares to challenge for the Nairobi governor seat in 2027. The lawmaker announced his plans during his unveiling as a party member in Nairobi on Monday, November 9.
Karauri said he intends to seek the county’s top job on a United Democratic Alliance ticket. His move brings him into President William Ruto’s party after winning the Kasarani parliamentary seat as an independent in 2022.
Meanwhile, Governor Johnson Sakaja has taken a different political path ahead of the election. He left UDA on November 2, 2026, and announced plans to defend his seat on an Orange Democratic Movement ticket.
Karauri joins UDA after independent parliamentary win
The party switch marks a new step for Karauri, who entered Parliament through the 2022 general election. He now aims to move from representing Kasarani to leading Nairobi County in the next election.
Beyond politics, Karauri serves as chief executive officer of SportPesa, the betting company he co-founded. The former commercial pilot, popularly known as The Captain, has also built a profile in Kenya’s sports betting industry.
His work in sport includes supporting local football clubs and funding emerging talent. He has also promoted community sports initiatives focused on engaging young people and developing grassroots football, alongside major football sponsorships.
