HEADLINES

Power Battle Begins? Raila Allies Demand Nairobi Governor Seat In 2027 as Condition in Ruto Talks

The political temperature in Nairobi has risen sharply following a bold declaration by ODM stalwart and Makadara MP George Aladwa, who stated that anyone seeking to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in 2027 must do so through the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

His remarks signal a growing push by Raila Odinga’s allies to secure key political positions ahead of the next general election — even as talks of a broad-based government between President William Ruto and the opposition continue to take shape.

Speaking at a public event in the capital, Aladwa confidently asserted that ODM remains the dominant political force in Nairobi and will not allow outsiders to dictate the city’s political future.

His statement is being interpreted as an early warning to both Kenya Kwanza and other parties within broad-based gov't, particularly those eyeing political realignments under the unity talks spearheaded by President Ruto and opposition chief Raila Odinga.

With Nairobi being Kenya’s economic hub and a key political battleground, control of the county is seen as a strategic prize ahead of 2027.

Analysts say Aladwa’s remarks could complicate the emerging negotiations between Ruto and Odinga, especially as both sides try to craft a power-sharing framework that accommodates various political players.

If ODM insists on retaining Nairobi as a non-negotiable seat, it could trigger stiff competition within the proposed broad-based arrangement.

Sources within ODM suggest that the party is keen on fronting a strong candidate — possibly a close ally of Raila — to reclaim or retain influence in Nairobi.

Current Governor Johnson Sakaja, elected on a Kenya Kwanza ticket, may therefore face a formidable challenge if ODM rallies behind a single consensus candidate.

MP George George Aladwa’s comments have also reignited debate on the internal dynamics of the opposition, with some leaders from other Azimio affiliate parties warning that ODM must allow open competition rather than issuing directives.

But even as 2027 approaches, the battle for Nairobi appears to have officially begun — and with Raila’s allies now making demands even before formal coalition frameworks are finalized, the coming months promise high-stakes political maneuvering.




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