Kenya's Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, setting his sights on a re-election bid in 2027. Sakaja, who was elected in 2022 under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), cited his desire to work with the party's leadership and boost his chances of securing a second term. The move comes as ODM and UDA, the two parties that form the current coalition government, prepare to sign a cooperation agreement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sakaja's decision to join ODM was met with mixed reactions, with some party members welcoming him while others expressed concerns. The governor said he has been working to implement the vision of ODM's founder, Raila Odinga, who had encouraged him to join the party. Sakaja also acknowledged that he had faced criticism for his association with ODM and its members, but remained committed to his new party affiliation.
The ODM party has confirmed that Sakaja's membership application has been accepted, and he will be vying for the party's ticket in the 2027 gubernatorial elections. However, Sakaja will face competition from within the party, including George Aladwa, the current ODM Nairobi chairman, who has also expressed interest in running for governor. Aladwa has stated that he is committed to the party and will not be swayed by rumors or speculation.
The ODM party has assured its members that the selection process for candidates will be transparent and fair. The party's deputy leader, Simba Arati, stated that the party welcomes new members, including Ronald Karauri, a Kasarani MP who has expressed interest in joining ODM. Arati also confirmed that Aladwa and Sakaja will compete for the party's ticket, with the winner expected to face stiff competition from other candidates.
Tensions were evident at the event where Sakaja was welcomed into the party, with some members chanting slogans in support of Aladwa. Police were forced to intervene, using tear gas to disperse the crowd. Despite the tensions, Sakaja expressed his commitment to working with the party's leadership and members to ensure ODM's success in the 2027 elections.
Sakaja's move to ODM has also sparked speculation about the party's strategy in the 2027 elections. The party is expected to face stiff competition from other parties, including UDA, which has dominated Nairobi politics in recent years. ODM's national chairperson, Gladys Wanga, stated that the party is confident of winning the elections, citing its strong grassroots support and commitment to serving the people of Nairobi.
The 2027 general elections are expected to be highly competitive, with several candidates vying for the top spots. Sakaja's decision to join ODM has added a new layer of complexity to the electoral landscape, with many analysts predicting a fierce battle for control of Nairobi's politics. As the elections approach, all eyes will be on Sakaja and ODM as they seek to consolidate their position and secure a victory.
Key points
- Sakaja joins ODM party ahead of 2027 re-election bid
- ODM party confirms Sakaja's membership, sets stage for 2027 gubernatorial elections
- Sakaja to face competition from within ODM, including George Aladwa and Ronald Karauri
