Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially left the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as he positions himself for another term in office in the 2027 General Election. Sakaja made the political switch on Monday, abandoning President William Ruto’s party in favour of ODM, which he hopes will grant him the ticket to defend his Nairobi gubernatorial seat.
The governor was formally received at ODM’s headquarters, Chungwa House, in Nairobi, where he was welcomed by senior party officials, including Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati and National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, alongside other party leaders. Speaking during the event, Sakaja said he was bringing his leadership experience, commitment to public service and youthful political support to strengthen ODM as the country prepares for the next General Election.
He maintained that the next phase of Kenya’s political leadership should focus on delivering meaningful change in people’s lives rather than concentrating solely on winning elections. Sakaja noted that political success should be measured by the impact leaders make through their service and the transformation they bring to communities.
I bring with me the commitment I had to service, experience, energy and conviction that the next phase of politics, the next chapter of our politics must be measured not simply by elections we win but the lives we transform,
Governor SakajaSakaja Explains His Decision to Join ODM
The Nairobi governor also linked his decision to join ODM to his relationship with the party’s late founder, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Sakaja indicated that he shared Raila’s political ideals and leadership philosophy, adding that the former opposition leader had encouraged him to join the Orange party.
He recalled Raila’s vision for Nairobi, saying he was committed to ensuring that the city’s bold political identity and leadership remained part of ODM’s agenda. His remarks signalled his intention to align himself with Raila’s political legacy as he seeks to build support within the Orange party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sakaja’s 2027 Nairobi Governor Race Takes Shape
Sakaja’s entry into ODM is expected to influence the political contest for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat, particularly as several prominent politicians position themselves to challenge for the county’s top office. Should he secure the ODM nomination, the governor is expected to face competition from Mwananchi Party’s Babu Owino, Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri and other political aspirants seeking to become Nairobi’s next governor. The 2027 contest is expected to attract considerable political attention given Nairobi’s strategic importance as the country’s capital and largest urban centre.
Sakaja will, however, need to secure the support of ODM members and navigate the party’s nomination process before officially becoming its candidate for the gubernatorial race. His departure from UDA also marks a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties and aspirants continuing to reorganise their support bases in preparation for the polls.
