Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially defected from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), joining the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in a major political shift ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a media briefing at ODM Headquarters, Chungwa House, in Lavington, Nairobi, on Monday, November 2, Sakaja announced his decision to leave UDA and join the Raila Odinga-founded party.
He said he will seek re-election on the party’s ticket in 2027 while supporting President Ruto’s broad-based government.
Sakaja had earlier signaled a possible departure from UDA, with the governor openly considering joining the ODM ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a memorial event for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Jacaranda Grounds on Saturday, October 31, Sakaja asked residents whether he should join ODM, UDA or the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
“What do you say, should I join ODM?” he asked.
His remarks came as ODM leaders and supporters continued calling on him to join the party, with residents at the gathering urging him to make the move.
Sakaja also appeared to signal his willingness to work under ODM’s leadership ahead of the next General Election.
Also Read: Nairobi Residents Demand Withdrawal of Sakaja’s New Administrative Plan
Sakaja’s Previous Remarks on Joining ODM
On August 26, 2026, Sakaja confirmed that ODM officials and party supporters had approached him over a possible move from UDA.
“There has been that call. Some officials and party members have said that they want me to move to their party,” he said.
His remarks confirmed that discussions about his possible political realignment had been taking place, although he had not announced a formal departure from UDA.
During the October 31 memorial gathering, he also addressed ODM leaders, indicating that he was willing to be guided by the party’s leadership.
“The voice of the people is the voice of God. Chair and party leader, you will guide me,” he told the leaders.
His remarks added to speculation about his political plans as parties begin preparing for the 2027 General Election.
ODM’s Nairobi Gubernatorial Ticket
The governor’s possible entry into ODM also raises questions about the party’s Nairobi gubernatorial ticket for the 2027 elections.
Also Read: ODM Bigwigs Forced to Flee After Jacaranda Grounds Chaos
Although some ODM leaders and delegates have supported his entry, the party has not guaranteed him a direct nomination.
Makadara MP George Aladwa has also emerged as a potential contender for the ODM gubernatorial ticket, setting the stage for a possible contest within the party.
ODM leaders have maintained that candidates seeking the party’s tickets should participate in competitive primaries rather than receive automatic nominations.
Sakaja was elected Nairobi governor in August 2022 on a UDA ticket after defeating Jubilee candidate Polycarp Igathe.
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