Sakaja Joins ODM, Eyes Second Term on Party Ticket

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has defected from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 General Election, setting the stage for a fresh political contest for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat.

Sakaja formally joined ODM on Monday during an event at the party's headquarters, Chungwa House, in Nairobi, where he was received by Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati, National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and other senior party officials.

The governor said he was bringing experience, energy and a strong youthful support base to ODM as the party prepares for the next general election. He is seeking to secure the party's ticket to defend his seat for a second term.

"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," Sakaja said.

He attributed his decision to join ODM partly to his relationship with the party's late founder, Raila Odinga, saying he identified with his leadership philosophy and political ideals.

Sakaja further claimed that Raila had encouraged him to join the party, expressing his commitment to maintaining Nairobi's bold political identity within ODM.

"If Baba was here today, and he is the one who told me to join ODM, he said that Nairobi should remain bold and we will do everything to ensure that is present in ODM," he said.

His defection reshapes the political calculations ahead of the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial race, where he could face several prominent contenders, including Mwananchi Party's Babu Owino, Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri and other aspirants.

However, Sakaja's immediate political challenge will be securing the ODM nomination in what could become a competitive contest for the party's Nairobi gubernatorial ticket.