Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has taken a major political step towards joining the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after being hosted by party leader Dr Oburu Oginga at his home in a meeting that signals a possible shift in his political allegiance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Oburu announced Sakaja’s entry into the party following their meeting on Monday evening, describing the governor’s move as a significant boost to ODM’s growing political influence.
In a statement shared on social media, Oburu said he was delighted to officially welcome Sakaja into the ODM family.
“It was a great pleasure hosting Governor Johnson Sakaja at my home this evening. I was truly delighted to officially welcome him into the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) family,” Oburu said.
He added that Sakaja’s decision marked an important step in strengthening the party.
“As our party continues to grow and strengthen its roots, his joining marks a significant and welcome step forward for all our new members. Karibu sana to ODM,” he added.
The development places Sakaja at the centre of renewed political realignments in Nairobi as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.
Sakaja confirms UDA exit, targets second term on ODM ticket
The meeting with Oburu came hours after Sakaja formally announced his departure from UDA and joined ODM at the party’s headquarters, Chungwa House, in Nairobi.
He was received by senior ODM officials, including Deputy Party Leaders Simba Arati and Hassan Joho, National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed.
Sakaja confirmed that he intends to defend his Nairobi gubernatorial seat in 2027 using the ODM ticket, marking a major shift from the party that sponsored his successful 2022 election.
He attributed his decision partly to his close relationship with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, claiming that the former ODM leader had personally encouraged him to join the party.
Sakaja’s move follows Jacaranda rally
The governor’s decision came after he attended an ODM gathering at Jacaranda Grounds on Saturday, October 31, where he appeared to seek public endorsement for his political realignment.
During the event, Sakaja asked Nairobi residents whether he should join ODM, with supporters responding in favour of the Orange party.
His remarks intensified speculation that he was preparing to abandon UDA after months of political uncertainty over his future.
His eventual decision now gives ODM a sitting Nairobi governor as it seeks to consolidate its influence in the capital ahead of the 2027 elections.
ODM nomination battle awaits Sakaja
However, Sakaja’s entry into ODM does not guarantee him the party’s gubernatorial ticket, with Makadara MP George Aladwa also having expressed interest in contesting for the seat.
Speaking during the reception, Arati assured ODM members that the party would conduct free and fair nominations, signalling that Sakaja could face competition before securing the ticket.
Sakaja, in turn, said he would engage Aladwa to discuss their competing political interests.
The governor also maintained that his decision to join ODM did not mean he was abandoning President William Ruto, declaring that he would continue supporting the Head of State from within the Orange party.
The position introduces an interesting political dynamic as ODM and UDA continue working together under the broad-based government arrangement, even as their respective leaders prepare for the 2027 elections.
