Nairobi Gubernatorial Race Tightens, Babu Owino Emerges Front Runner

The Nairobi gubernatorial contest has intensified, with a new opinion poll by the Centre for African Progress showing Embakasi East MP Babu Owino in the lead at 37 percent, followed closely by former Dagoretti South MP Dennis Waweru at 35 percent

The poll places Governor Johnson Sakaja in third position with 15 percent, while other candidates collectively account for 13 percent of voter preference. The results underscore a shifting political landscape in the capital as candidates rally support ahead of the elections.

Notably, Waweru has gained ground compared to the previous poll, where he registered 31 percent. His rise to 35 percent signals growing popularity among city voters and positions him as a key challenger in the race.

Political analysts suggest that if Waweru and Babu Owino were to join forces, their combined support estimated at over 72 percent would present a formidable bloc that could be nearly impossible to beat. Such an alliance could reshape Nairobi’s political arithmetic and force other contenders to rethink their strategies.

With the margins between the top two candidates tightening, the Nairobi race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests. Observers say the outcome will not only determine the city’s leadership but also carry wider political implications at the national level.