Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has officially joined the Orange Democratic Movement, announcing his intention to defend his gubernatorial seat under the party banner while supporting President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election campaign. High-ranking ODM officials warmly welcomed him, greeting the governor as a valuable addition to their political ranks and assuring him of robust backing in this new political phase. Leading the reception were ODM Deputy Party Leaders Simba Arati and Hassan Joho, alongside chairperson Gladys Wanga and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, who all affirmed his integration into the party.
Following his formal admission, Sakaja stated that his decision stemmed from a commitment to advance ODM ideals and strengthen its influence within the administration, framing the transition as both personal conviction and strategic alignment. He emphasized his readiness to uphold party loyalty and contribute actively to its future objectives under the broader national governance framework. The governor highlighted that ODM and UDA share a unified presidential candidate in President Ruto, cementing a collaborative political environment.
Addressing past criticisms regarding his earlier collaboration with ODM while serving under the UDA ticket, Sakaja explained that cooperation was essential because ODM held the majority in the County Assembly. He rebuked leaders who had previously questioned his interactions with the party and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, arguing that partisan friction should not supersede effective governance. He clarified that his entry into ODM was not meant to displace anyone, but rather to secure his rightful place within the organization while honoring Raila’s legacy of social justice and devolution.
Looking toward the 2027 polls, Sakaja noted that he would consult with other aspirants, including those who have expressed interest in the gubernatorial ticket, to foster internal harmony. Party leaders echoed these sentiments, with Arati, Joho, Wanga, and Junet praising the governor’s political history with the movement and reinforcing Nairobi’s status as a strong political base. They reiterated commitments to transparent nominations and collective support for President Ruto’s presidential bid, setting the stage for an intense political landscape in the capital.