Ahead of the 2027 General Election, the battle for Nairobi’s governorship is intensifying as leading political figures continue to stake their claim on the county’s top seat.
A poll credited to Mizani Africa, now trending online, points to a close three-way contest between Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and current Governor Johnson Sakaja.The findings put Gakuya ahead with 46 per cent backing, trailed by Owino at 34 per cent and Sakaja at 17 per cent. Simon Ngunjiri received 3 per cent support.
Analysts note that such figures merely reflect public opinion at the moment the poll was taken and should not be read as a prediction of the final result.
Several other surveys carried out through 2026 have produced varying outcomes, showing how sentiment among voters can shift based on sample size, methodology and timing of data collection.
Gakuya’s profile has been steadily rising in connection with the Nairobi race as campaign activity ahead of the elections gathers pace.
His strong showing in recent polling suggests growing support, though the race remains far from settled at this stage.Owino has equally made his ambitions known, having previously confirmed intentions to vie for the governor’s seat come 2027, positioning himself as a formidable contender against his rivals.
Sakaja, who claimed the governorship in 2022, is anticipated to lean on his track record in office as he pushes for a second term, hoping his incumbency will help him fend off the mounting challenge from newer contenders.
As political parties work through their nomination processes and coalition talks remain fluid, the contest for Nairobi’s leadership is set to draw sharper focus the closer the country gets to the 2027 polls.
Much will depend on how alliances take shape and how effectively each aspirant builds support across the capital’s diverse wards.