Sakaja has officially joined the Orange Democratic Movement(ODM) after leaving President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance(UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was received at ODM headquarters in Nairobi by senior party officials, ending months of speculation over his political future.
Also Read
Sakaja makes move to ODM official
The governor was welcomed to Chungwa House by ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati and National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, among other party leaders.
His entry into ODM comes as he prepares to seek a second term as Nairobi governor in the 2027 election.
Sakaja said he was joining the party with political experience, energy and a commitment to public service.
He also said politics should ultimately be judged by improvements in people’s lives rather than simply by election victories.
Months of speculation end
The move follows several months in which Sakaja openly acknowledged approaches from ODM leaders and supporters.
In August, he confirmed that party officials, MPs, youth leaders and women representatives had encouraged him to cross over from UDA, although he said at the time that he had not made a final decision.
The political signals became stronger at a memorial event for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Jacaranda Grounds on October 31.
Sakaja asked the crowd which party they wanted him to join, with sections of the audience calling for ODM.
Raila relationship influenced decision
Sakaja has linked his political relationship with ODM to his close association with the late Raila Odinga.
The governor said Raila had previously encouraged him to join the party and described the former Prime Minister as an important influence on his political journey.
He has also called on ODM to continue championing issues such as social justice, the cost of living and the interests of ordinary Kenyans.
Nairobi race takes shape
Sakaja is expected to seek the ODM nomination for another term at City Hall.
His move adds another dimension to the emerging Nairobi gubernatorial contest ahead of 2027.
Citizen Digital reports that potential rivals include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri, among other political figures.
The move also represents a significant political shift for Sakaja, who won the Nairobi governorship on a UDA ticket in 2022.
Attention will now turn to how his entry affects ODM’s nomination process and the wider contest for control of the capital.
