Raila Odinga Endorses Sakaja’s Leadership as Governor Hints at Joining ODM Ahead of 2027 Poll

Raila Odinga Endorses Sakaja’s Leadership as Governor Hints at Joining ODM Ahead of 2027 Poll

Nairobi – Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has thrown his weight behind Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja ahead of the 2027 General Election. Speaking at Bomas of Kenya on Monday, February 10, Raila made it clear that he wants stability in Nairobi as he prepares to take on his new role at the African Union Commission (AUC).

“I want Nairobi to remain stable and for this young man Sakaja to continue being in charge, firm, and doing things properly,” Raila stated as the crowd erupted in cheers.

Calls for Sakaja to Join ODM
Makadara MP George Aladwa set the stage for Nairobi’s 2027 political battle by urging Sakaja to ditch President William Ruto’s UDA and join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

“Raila, when you go to the AUC, I ask you, Sakaja, our governor of Nairobi, to switch from UDA to ODM, and then we move together. In our ODM party, we have no jealousy,” Aladwa declared.

Sakaja, while addressing the gathering, dropped a strong hint that he might be considering a political shift.

“Dalili ya mvua ni nini? Sisi tuko hapo bumper to bumper,” Sakaja said, implying he is closely aligned with Raila’s camp.

Implications of Raila’s Endorsement
Raila’s endorsement of Sakaja is a significant political move that may alter Nairobi’s 2027 election landscape. The governor’s track record and his efforts to transform Nairobi into a model city appear to have earned him Raila’s confidence.

However, this endorsement delivers a major setback to Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, both of whom have shown interest in running for Nairobi’s top seat in 2027.

With Raila’s influence still dominant in ODM, it remains to be seen whether the party will back Sakaja or stand by its longtime loyalists, Babu and Wanyonyi. The next few months will likely shape the political alignment of Nairobi’s leadership battle.

What Next for Sakaja?
The biggest question remains: Will Sakaja officially join ODM? His latest remarks suggest he is open to the idea, but a formal declaration is yet to be made. If he does, it will undoubtedly shake up Nairobi’s political scene and challenge UDA’s grip on the city.

With 2027 still far, the political dynamics could shift further, making this an intriguing battle to watch.

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Raila Odinga Endorses Sakaja’s Leadership as Governor Hints at Joining ODM Ahead of 2027 Poll