Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Geoffrey Ruku has announced his intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, aiming for the county’s top position ahead of the next General Election.
Ruku made the announcement while inspecting government projects, including affordable housing developments in South B, Nairobi, where he also criticised opposition leaders for opposing government projects.
The CS accused his critics of not understanding key issues affecting Nairobi residents, including housing, education, healthcare, roads and waste management.
“They do not understand housing. They do not understand education or health. They do not understand roads or the garbage problem facing Nairobi,” Ruku said.
Geoffrey Ruku further accused the opposition of focusing on personal interests instead of offering solutions to the challenges facing the city.
“Their only concern is their stomachs,” he said.
Ruku called on Nairobi residents to reject leaders he accused of failing to address the county’s development needs.
“I humbly appeal to you people of Nairobi to sweep them all out. Where should they go? Back home.”
He argued that the city required leaders who understood the challenges facing residents and could support development projects.
Also Read: Sakaja Dumps Ruto’s UDA
Sakaja Leaves Ruto’s UDA for ODM
The announcement of Geoffrey Ruku came two days after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja formally left the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), reshaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sakaja announced his decision on Monday, November 2, during a media briefing at ODM headquarters, Chungwa House, in Lavington, Nairobi.
He said he would seek re-election as Nairobi governor on an ODM ticket in 2027 while continuing to support President William Ruto’s broad-based government.
“Let me state clearly that I am joining ODM. I bring energy and conviction, and I am ready to support the party as required and demonstrate the loyalty expected of every member,” he said.
The move followed earlier indications that Sakaja was considering leaving UDA for ODM ahead of the next General Election.
During a memorial event for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Jacaranda Grounds on Saturday, October 31, Sakaja had asked Nairobi residents to advise him on which political party to join, naming ODM, UDA and the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) as options.
“What do you say, should I join ODM?” he asked.
Other Aspirants Eyeing Nairobi Governor’s Seat Ahead of 2027
Several politicians and business figures have declared interest in the Nairobi governor’s seat ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Also Read: Winnie Odinga Declares Bid for Nairobi Senate Seat
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is among them. He has announced plans to contest on a Mwananchi Party ticket and said he intends to serve one term as governor before seeking the presidency in 2032.
Businessperson Agnes Kagure is also seeking the seat on a Kenya Patriots Party ticket. She previously contested the Nairobi governorship in 2022.
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya has also joined the race. He is associated with the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Former Starehe MP Margaret Wanjiru declared her bid on September 6, under the Kenya Moja Movement Party ticket. She had also sought the seat in 2022 but stepped aside following political negotiations.
Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri announced his bid on February 22, after consulting residents in his constituency. The former pilot and SportPesa chief executive said he would be on the ballot.
“I will be on the ballot. If elected, Nairobi residents will not complain,” he said.
Makadara MP George Aladwa is also seeking the seat on an ODM ticket. He previously served as deputy governor under former Nairobi governor Evans Kidero.
Journalist and political commentator Tony Gachoka has also expressed interest in the seat. He joined KANU in June 2025 and confirmed his gubernatorial ambitions in July 2026.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel for in-depth interviews.
