Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has admitted that his decision to join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) does not guarantee him the party’s ticket to defend his seat in the 2027 General Election.
The governor, who recently abandoned President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) for ODM, says he is prepared to face the party’s nomination process rather than expect an automatic endorsement.
Speaking during his The Nairobi Baraza podcast on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Sakaja acknowledged that the party’s nomination process would determine who eventually gets the opportunity to contest for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat.
“I have no assurance on the ticket. The party talks about free and fair processes,” Sakaja said.
His remarks signal that despite receiving a high-profile welcome into ODM, the governor understands that securing the party’s nomination could be one of his biggest political challenges ahead of the 2027 elections. People Daily
Sakaja Sends Message to Longstanding ODM Politicians
Beyond his admission about the ticket, Sakaja also moved to address concerns among longtime ODM members who may feel threatened by his arrival in the party.
The governor insisted that he had not joined the Orange party to push aside politicians who had spent years building its political structures.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by longstanding members and said their contribution to the party should not be overlooked.
“I don’t think that I’ve come to displace anyone. I can’t take their place, and the people who built their careers, the people who sacrificed, the people who have been in the trenches, you cannot diminish that,” he stated.
Sakaja added that he intended to contribute his political experience and energy while working alongside existing party members.
He also maintained that he was not a stranger to ODM, arguing that he had supported the party even before formally becoming a member. People Daily
Robert Alai Questions ODM’s Decision to Welcome Sakaja
Meanwhile, Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai has questioned ODM’s decision to accommodate Sakaja, raising concerns about what the governor’s entry means for politicians who have grown within the party.
Alai argued that after more than two decades of existence, ODM should have developed its own leaders capable of competing for Nairobi’s top county seat.
He questioned why the party would welcome an established politician from another political formation instead of prioritising individuals who had built their political careers within its structures.
Alai also questioned whether Sakaja’s decision to abandon UDA was driven by genuine political conviction or calculations ahead of the 2027 elections.
He called on ODM to thoroughly scrutinise the governor’s political intentions before fully embracing his ambitions. People Daily
George Aladwa and Other Aspirants Complicate Sakaja’s Bid
Sakaja’s biggest challenge could emerge from within ODM itself, where other politicians are also eyeing the Nairobi gubernatorial seat.
Makadara MP George Aladwa, who has served as ODM’s Nairobi chairman, is among those interested in the position.
Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri has also been linked to a possible ODM move as he considers a gubernatorial bid.
ODM leaders have maintained that anyone seeking the party’s ticket must participate in a competitive nomination process.
Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati and National Chairperson Gladys Wanga have also indicated that the party will conduct free and fair nominations.
This means Sakaja could face a difficult contest despite his position as the sitting governor. The Star
What Sakaja’s Admission Means Ahead of 2027
Sakaja’s latest remarks expose the political uncertainty surrounding his decision to join ODM.
Although his entry into the party has strengthened his political association with the Orange movement, the governor must still convince party members that he deserves the opportunity to defend his Nairobi seat.
His challenge will be balancing his re-election ambitions with the interests of longstanding ODM politicians who also want a chance to lead the county.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, the battle for the ODM gubernatorial ticket could become one of the most closely watched political contests in Nairobi.
