Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially defected from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), declaring his intent to defend his gubernatorial seat on an ODM ticket in the 2027 General Election.
The announcement was formalized during a ceremony at ODM’s Chungwa House headquarters in Nairobi, where Sakaja was received by senior party officials, including Deputy Party Leaders Simba Arati and Hassan Joho, and National Chairperson Gladys Wanga.
Speaking after receiving his party credentials, Sakaja attributed his move to political consultations and guidance from opposition leaders, noting that the switch formalizes a long-standing working relationship with the party.
“People used to say that I was an ODM mole, but the reality is that I understood the importance of working with everyone for the benefit of Nairobi residents,” Sakaja stated. He added that collaborating with the ODM-majority Nairobi County Assembly has been essential for passing county budgets and advancing key development projects.
Sakaja’s defection follows a public rally at Jacaranda Grounds over the weekend, where he engaged residents on his political direction ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Defending his decision on Tuesday, Sakaja maintained that switching party colors does not alter his commitment to the national broad-based political framework. However, the move sets up a competitive dynamic within ODM, as local party officials and prospective candidates navigate party nominations for the Nairobi top seat.