Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has indicated that he is contemplating a switch from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in an interview on Inooro FM on August 11, 2026, Sakaja said he is consulting widely before making a final decision. He promised to announce his political party affiliation by the end of August.
"I was very close with Raila Odinga. He was like my father, and I spent a lot of time with him. So we are still consulting, and before the end of August, we shall see what happens," the governor said.
The remarks come as ODM leaders intensify efforts to consolidate their influence in Nairobi. Suna East MP Junet Mohammed recently urged Sakaja to join ODM, warning that remaining with UDA could jeopardize his re-election chances.
Junet stated, "If Sakaja desires to be re-elected as Nairobi governor in 2027, then he should come to ODM. If he decides to remain where he is, he will wait until Jesus comes back, and nobody will elect him." He added that ODM, not UDA, is the sure path to victory in Nairobi.
Sakaja acknowledged ODM's popularity in the capital, noting that the party holds key positions including the Nairobi Senator and Woman Representative seats, as well as a majority of parliamentary seats.
However, he emphasized that his political support is based on personal judgment rather than party affiliation alone, expressing gratitude to his supporters.
Meanwhile, several leaders have recently left UDA, signaling significant political realignments ahead of next year's polls. Among those who have quit the party are Nyandarua Governor Badilisha Kiarie, Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata, Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe, Lamu Woman Representative Muthoni Marubu, and former Gender CS Aisha Jumwa.
