Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has publicly endorsed Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku for the Nairobi governorship. In a statement on Wednesday, Passaris expressed her dissatisfaction with incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja's recent switch from UDA to ODM. She believes Sakaja's decision does not guarantee him the governorship in 2027, as the decision ultimately lies with the people of Nairobi.
Passaris criticized Sakaja's leadership, stating that President William Ruto has been effectively running Nairobi due to Sakaja's poor performance. She emphasized that Nairobi needs a decisive and hands-on governor who can get things done. Passaris cited Ruku's track record in the Public Service docket as a reason for her endorsement, highlighting his energy, decisiveness, and leadership skills as qualities Nairobi needs.
Passaris expressed her long-standing love for Nairobi, recalling her earlier ambitions to become the city's mayor in 2007. Although her dream did not materialize, she still wants Nairobi to have the best possible governor. Passaris stated that if elections were held today, she would vote for Ruku. She emphasized that every candidate must earn votes, make meaningful promises, and be accountable to the people.
Ruku recently announced his bid for the Nairobi governorship, promising to improve service delivery in the capital. He emphasized that Nairobi needs a leader with integrity, vision, and strong leadership skills to address its challenges and realize its potential. Ruku described Nairobi as a hub for East Africa and the greater East and Central Business Hub.
Ruku highlighted his experience in elective politics, having previously served as Mbeere North MP. He was elected in 2022 on a Democratic Party of Kenya ticket and later nominated to the Cabinet by President William Ruto in March 2025. Ruku took over the Public Service docket from former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi after Parliament approved his appointment.
Passaris concluded by emphasizing the importance of a well-governed Nairobi, which would be a tremendous asset to President Ruto and every Kenyan who calls the city home. She encouraged the best candidate to win, stressing that Nairobi deserves nothing less. Ruku's endorsement by Passaris adds momentum to his campaign, which is expected to be highly contested in the 2027 elections.
The endorsement and announcement come as Nairobi prepares for the 2027 elections. The city's governance has been a subject of interest, with various leaders vying for the top position. Passaris's support for Ruku is seen as a significant boost to his campaign, and it remains to be seen how the other candidates will respond to this development.
Key points
- Esther Passaris endorses Geoffrey Ruku for Nairobi governor, citing Johnson Sakaja's poor leadership.
- Passaris criticizes Sakaja's switch to ODM, saying it doesn't guarantee him the governorship in 2027.
- Ruku promises to improve service delivery in Nairobi, emphasizing the need for a leader with integrity and vision.
