Embakasi North MP James Gakuya has launched a fresh attack on President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), questioning the party’s political influence in Nairobi following Governor Johnson Sakaja’s defection to ODM.
Gakuya claimed that UDA had lost its footing in the capital and would struggle to compete against opposition parties in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a television interview on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, the legislator argued that Sakaja’s decision to abandon UDA demonstrated the challenges facing the ruling party in Nairobi.
“I will tell UDA to their face that they will get the worst discouragement in Nairobi. And that’s why Sakaja himself cannot even dare to contest on a UDA ticket. He is aware that UDA is a complete shell, and that’s how it is,” Gakuya said.
He further pointed to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s growing political influence, suggesting that his support base would complicate UDA’s attempts to strengthen its presence in the city.
“Remember also the wave of Sifuna in the city. It will be dust and nothing short of that,” he added.
Gakuya’s remarks came barely a day after Sakaja officially joined the Orange Democratic Movement at Chungwa House in Nairobi.
The governor was welcomed into the party by ODM leader Oburu Oginga, National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati.
Sakaja said his decision was influenced by his relationship with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who had encouraged him to join ODM.
The development has introduced fresh competition into the Nairobi gubernatorial contest, with Sakaja expected to pursue another term through the party.
However, he faces potential competition from several politicians, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Makadara MP George Aladwa and Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri.
Gakuya, who is associated with Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), is also seeking the seat. He has previously indicated that he could run as an independent candidate if he fails to secure the party’s nomination.
KANU politician Tony Gachoka is among other leaders linked to the contest.
Meanwhile, Gakuya has called for transparent joint nominations among opposition parties, arguing that aspirants should be allowed to compete fairly instead of being pressured to withdraw.
His latest remarks add to the political debate surrounding UDA’s position in Nairobi as parties and individual aspirants begin organising ahead of the August 2027 General Election.