SAKAJA DUMPS UDA, JOINS ODM AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTIONS

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially ditched the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), in a major political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Sakaja was formally welcomed into ODM on Monday, November 2, 2026, at the party's headquarters, Chungwa House, in Nairobi, by a delegation of senior party officials led by Deputy Party Leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati, alongside National Chairperson Gladys Wanga.

The governor's defection comes after months of speculation about his political future, following growing pressure from ODM leaders and supporters urging him to join the party.

Speaking during his reception, Sakaja said he was bringing his leadership experience, commitment and youthful support to strengthen the party, while expressing admiration for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom he described as a father figure who had encouraged him to join ODM.

His move is widely seen as a strategic step towards defending his Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election on an ODM ticket.

However, his entry into the party could intensify competition for the ODM gubernatorial ticket in Nairobi, with other party leaders, including Makadara MP George Aladwa, also expressing interest in the seat.

The defection marks another significant political shift as parties position themselves for the 2027 General Election.