Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has disclosed that his recent defection from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) was a planned move, approved by President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. In an interview with Ramogi TV, Sakaja revealed that discussions about his political transition had taken place between him, Ruto, and Raila long before he officially joined ODM on November 2, 2026.
According to Sakaja, the plan was discussed even before Raila travelled to Addis Ababa, with the only outstanding issue being agreeing on the appropriate timing. He stated that Ruto had informed him of the political arrangement and given him instructions on how to support ODM during its internal party elections, which he claimed to have followed. This revelation suggests that Sakaja's defection was not a sudden decision, but rather a carefully planned move.
Sakaja explained that although the intention to join ODM had been agreed upon, the leaders had not settled on when the move would be made, partly due to the legal requirements governing political party membership and transitions. He emphasized that the conversation about his defection was ongoing, but the timing had not been agreed upon. This indicates that Sakaja's defection was a deliberate and well-coordinated move.
The governor defended the timing of his defection, saying it had now become easier for him to work within the emerging UDA-ODM political arrangement. He believes that there is no better time than now to make the move, as it will facilitate his work within the coalition. Sakaja's defection has sparked interest in the political landscape, with many Kenyans speculating about the implications of his move.
Following his defection, Sakaja visited ODM party leader Oburu Oginga, who received him warmly. Sakaja described his return to the party as coming back home, insisting that he was not seeking to displace existing party members. He affirmed that he had come to occupy his own space within the party. This suggests that Sakaja is committed to working within the party and contributing to its growth.
Sakaja officially joined ODM on November 2 at Chungwa House in Nairobi, where he was received by senior party officials, including Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati and National Chairperson Gladys Wanga. He stated that he intended to contribute to the party's renewed political activities, adding that he would work to drive its resurgence in honour of Raila's legacy. This move is seen as a significant development in Kenyan politics.
The defection has raised questions about the future of UDA and ODM, as well as the implications for the 2027 general elections. Sakaja's move has sparked debate among Kenyans, with some viewing it as a strategic move to strengthen ODM's position in the country. As the political landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Sakaja's defection has set the stage for a new chapter in Kenyan politics.
Key points
- Sakaja's defection to ODM was planned with President Ruto and former PM Raila Odinga.
