The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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As Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja faces increasing criticism over issues like waste management, poor healthcare services, and general leadership concerns, a number of politicians have already declared or hinted at plans to challenge him in the 2027 General Election.
While some have officially announced their bids, others are still weighing their options or signaling interest.
Former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria is the latest to publicly declare his intention to run for the Nairobi governor seat in 2027.
In a post on his X account on Monday, October 13, 2025, the former Gatundu South MP said he was inspired to vie for the position to “clean up” Nairobi, which he described as poorly managed. His statement came shortly after he endorsed President William Ruto’s vision of transforming Kenya into a first-world nation.
“Dear President William Ruto, today you spoke to my heart. As Prime Minister Baba Raila Amolo Odinga has told me countless times, Nairobi cannot continue being the city of filth, garbage, and incompetence. I have heard your cry. That is why I will offer myself to be the Governor of the great county of Nairobi in 2027. I will fix Nairobi,” Kuria wrote.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has also formally announced his bid for governor, vowing to run with or without the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party’s support.
Babu has consistently criticized Governor Sakaja for alleged mismanagement of the county.
“I am sure I will not get the ODM ticket to vie for Nairobi Governor in 2027. Sakaja was endorsed by Raila at Bomas during the AUC prayer meeting. I know I will not get the ODM ticket, but I will still respect Raila as my political godfather, even though all my plans are in God’s hands,” Babu said during an interview on Kameme TV on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
Journalist and political analyst Tony Gachoka has also thrown his hat into the ring. After joining KANU on June 24, 2025, he officially announced his bid for the Nairobi governorship.
“The purpose of being here today is to announce that I, Tony Gachoka, will be running for the gubernatorial seat in Nairobi,” he said.
Although Governor Johnson Sakaja has not yet declared his re-election bid, he is widely expected to defend his seat in 2027. He already enjoys the support of key political figures, including ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Speaking at the Bomas of Kenya on February 10, 2025, during an interdenominational prayer service organized by the ODM Women’s Chapter, Raila endorsed Sakaja to oversee Nairobi’s political affairs in his absence.
“I want Nairobi to remain strong. This young man here will take charge and do the work well,” Raila stated.
Meanwhile, former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera has hinted at joining the race after aligning himself with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democratic Congress Party (DCP).
Sakaja, however, continues to face mounting pressure at City Hall amid reports of rifts with some Members of the Nairobi County Assembly, who are allegedly plotting an impeachment motion against him before the next election over claims of incompetence.
