Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja plans to seek re-election on an ODM ticket in 2027.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has joined ODM and plans to defend his seat on its ticket while maintaining support for President William Ruto.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has joined ODM and announced plans to seek re-election on its ticket in 2027. The move changes his party allegiance after he won the governorship under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in 2022.
However, Sakaja has also reaffirmed his support for President William Ruto’s broad-based government. He remains aligned with the political arrangement bringing together leaders from UDA and the Orange Democratic Movement.
Sakaja joins ODM ahead of nomination contest
The governor’s decision follows calls from ODM leaders and supporters for him to formally join the party. They had urged him to become a member if he wanted its backing for another term.
However, ODM leaders have maintained that aspirants must compete in nominations rather than expect automatic tickets. Nairobi ODM chairman and Makadara MP George Aladwa has said this requirement also applies to politicians joining from other parties.
Meanwhile, some ODM delegates have backed Aladwa for the Nairobi governorship. They have also opposed giving Sakaja the ticket without competitive nominations, setting up a potential internal contest ahead of the election.
Governor maintains support for Ruto
Sakaja has previously said he wants to work within a political formation that supports the President. His move therefore comes alongside continued backing for cooperation between ODM and UDA, despite the parties’ longstanding political differences.
The broad-based government arrangement has reshaped alliances ahead of the August 2027 General Election. Leaders from both parties have increasingly engaged on governance and political cooperation, while ODM maintains a working relationship with Ruto’s administration.
Sakaja defeated Jubilee candidate Polycarp Igathe in the August 2022 Nairobi governor election. His switch follows months of speculation about leaving UDA and earlier consultations with ODM officials, legislators and supporters.
