Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s bid for a second term took a major leap forward after ODM Leader Raila Odinga appeared to give a public endorsement, sparking fresh political conversations.
Speaking at a prayer service before his trip to Ethiopia for the African Union Commission Chairperson elections, Raila expressed his support for Sakaja’s leadership. Raila urged Nairobi’s leadership to stay united and back Sakaja as he continues his work in the capital.
“As I head off to Addis, I want Nairobi to remain firm and united, so that my man here can stay focused and deliver on his mandate,” Raila stated, amid applause from the crowd.
Sakaja’s Political Future with ODM
This public show of support from Raila comes as Governor Sakaja signals that he may seek re-election under the ODM banner. The governor recently hinted at his plans, saying, “I want to say that the signs of rainfall are heavy clouds, and whoever has eyes should not be reminded to read the signs. In the next two weeks, I will meet with ODM Women and branch chairmen to discuss how we can move forward together.”
ODM Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Makadara MP George Aladwa have already urged Sakaja to consider leaving the ruling UDA party in favor of ODM, a party that holds significant sway within Nairobi County.
“I want to thank our governor for standing with our party even though he is not yet a member. I am pleading with him to join ODM so we can walk this journey together,” said Aladwa.
Governor Wanga added, “I urge Sakaja to seriously consider what Aladwa has said. I’ve seen how the two of you have mobilized to make this event a success.”
Rising Tensions within ODM
While Raila’s endorsement of Sakaja is seen as a boost for the governor, it is also fueling tensions within ODM. Two prominent figures, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, have already thrown their hats in the ring for the Nairobi gubernatorial race in 2027.
Babu Owino, a vocal critic of Sakaja’s leadership, has consistently called out his governance and urged ODM to reconsider backing him for a second term. This division within the party is sure to create a fierce battle for the party’s support ahead of the upcoming elections.
With 2027 on the horizon, the political dynamics within ODM are bound to shift. Will Sakaja’s alignment with ODM be enough to silence his critics, or will new challengers rise to challenge his hold on Nairobi’s top seat?
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