Nairobi residents urge Sakaja to Join ODM ahead of 2027 Elections

Nairobi residents urge Sakaja to join ODM ahead of 2027 Elections

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has been urged by residents to join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 General Election, following an appeal he made to the crowd during a memorial event in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Speaking at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi, Sakaja asked residents to choose between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) and ODM as he sought their views on his political future.

The Governor recalled that Nairobi residents had elected him first as Senator and later as Governor despite their differing political affiliations, noting that even ODM supporters had backed his previous bids.

“You elected me Governor once, and before that you elected me Senator. You elected me without looking at party affiliation. Even those who supported ODM voted for me,” Sakaja said.

He then asked the crowd which political party they wanted him to join, prompting responses from supporters of the three political formations.

“Now, this time, what are you saying? Which party should I join? UDA? DCP? How many ODM supporters want me to join UDA?” he posed.

When he asked how many wanted him to join ODM, sections of the crowd raised their hands and called on him to join the opposition party.

In response, Sakaja invoked the popular saying that the voice of the people is the voice of God and asked ODM's leadership to guide him on his political direction.

“The voice of the people is the voice of God. Chair and party leader, you will guide me,” he said.

Although he did not announce plans to leave his current political formation, his remarks signalled a possible political realignment as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

Beyond his political future, Sakaja challenged ODM to preserve the ideals championed by Raila, saying the party's legacy should be reflected in its commitment to defending ordinary Kenyans and promoting social justice.

He said Raila consistently spoke out against the economic challenges facing citizens, including the rising cost of living and fuel prices, and urged ODM to maintain that tradition.

“Baba was the number one defender of the underprivileged. When the cost of living went up, he spoke. When fuel prices increased, he spoke. For ODM to remember Baba, it must uphold his values. When wananchi have problems, we must speak out,” Sakaja said.

The Governor also called on political leaders to promote national unity and avoid exploiting ethnic differences for political gain.

He maintained that Nairobi should remain an inclusive city where Kenyans from all communities can live, work and pursue opportunities without discrimination.