Karauri Joins UDA, Eyes Nairobi Gubernatorial Seat

Kasarani Member of Parliament Ronald Karauri has officially joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party as he launches his bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election. Karauri was welcomed at the party's headquarters by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah and UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar. He cited UDA's broad-based government and "Usawa ni sawa" policy framework as reasons for his decision.

Karauri's move to UDA comes as he criticizes incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja's performance, stating that Nairobi has not worked under his administration. He expressed confidence in his ability to unite Nairobi's diverse population under a single vision. Karauri previously served as an Independent MP for Kasarani and has now joined the ruling party. His decision follows Governor Sakaja's exit from UDA to join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah revealed that President William Ruto specifically requested him to welcome Karauri to the UDA party. Ichung'wah forecast a UDA victory in the capital come 2027, citing that Nairobi was UDA in 2022 and will be again in 2027. This development intensifies the battle for the UDA ticket and the wider 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial race.

Several prominent politicians have declared their candidacies for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku. Karauri highlighted UDA's policy framework, which guarantees every ward receives attention, every voice counts, and every citizen matters.

Karauri's decision to join UDA was influenced by his assessment of various options. He stated that he looked at all the options and chose UDA as the ideal political vehicle to deliver effective governance for Nairobi residents. This move is seen as a significant development in the 2027 General Election.

The battle for the UDA ticket and the Nairobi gubernatorial seat continues to intensify. Governor Sakaja's exit from UDA to join ODM cited ODM's historical strength across Nairobi and the legacy of the late Raila Odinga as factors in his decision. Several politicians are vying for the UDA ticket and the chance to face off against other candidates in the 2027 election.

Karauri's move to UDA and his bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat have garnered significant attention. His ability to unite Nairobi's diverse population and deliver effective governance will be crucial in his campaign. The 2027 General Election is expected to be a highly competitive and closely watched event in Kenya's political landscape.

Key points

• Karauri joins UDA to deliver effective governance for Nairobi residents
• Ichung'wah reveals President Ruto's request to welcome Karauri to UDA
• Battle for UDA ticket and Nairobi gubernatorial seat intensifies with several candidates vying for position