Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is facing political pressure after Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ward representatives in Nairobi endorsed Makadara Member of Parliament George Aladwa for the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial race.
The development adds to the debate over which party should field the candidate for the capital’s county position. Aladwa has declared his intention to seek the Nairobi governorship on an ODM ticket.
The endorsement came during a meeting involving ODM and UDA ward representatives at City Hall, according to reports. Aladwa used the gathering to explain his plans and promised to work closely with ward representatives if elected.
He said projects at ward level would receive attention under his leadership. The representatives backing him said ODM should have its own candidate for the Nairobi contest.
The move comes as uncertainty continues over Sakaja’s political plans for the 2027 election. Sakaja was elected governor in 2022 on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket and remains a UDA member.
There have been reports that Sakaja could seek support from ODM, but developments within the party have complicated the issue. ODM delegates in Nairobi had earlier rejected efforts to give Sakaja the party’s ticket and backed Aladwa for the governor’s seat.
Aladwa, who is ODM’s Nairobi chairman, has maintained that he is ready to compete for the party ticket. He has served as the Member of Parliament for Makadara and previously served as mayor of Nairobi City Council.
The Nairobi contest is expected to attract other aspirants ahead of the 2027 General Election. Among those who have expressed interest are Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya and Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri.
The latest endorsement does not determine the final ODM candidate. Party nominations and 2027 electoral process will determine who represents the party in the Nairobi governor race