Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja's decision to abandon President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has opened a new political battle over who will carry the party's flag in the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial election.

The governor officially joined ODM on Monday, November 2, 2026, in a major political realignment that could reshape Nairobi's political landscape ahead of the next General Election.

According to Citizen Digital, Sakaja was received at ODM headquarters, Chungwa House, by senior party officials led by Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati and National Chairperson Gladys Wanga.

The governor attributed his decision to his longstanding relationship with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom he credited with encouraging him to join the Orange party.

However, his entry into ODM has immediately raised questions about the party's 2027 gubernatorial ticket, with several prominent politicians already positioning themselves to challenge for the same seat.

Daily Nation reports that Makadara MP George Aladwa, who also serves as ODM Nairobi branch chairperson, is interested in becoming the next governor and is expected to compete for the party nomination.

Another politician whose ambitions could complicate Sakaja's re-election plans is Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who has also expressed interest in the Nairobi gubernatorial seat.

Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri is another potential contender. According to reports, Arati has indicated that the party would welcome him if he decides to join ODM and pursue the same position.

The Standard has also examined the political calculations behind Sakaja's defection, noting that his move comes as parties reorganise their support bases ahead of the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, The Star reports that Sakaja has already held talks with ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga following his admission into the party, signalling his intention to work with the party leadership.

Capital FM has also reported on the governor's meeting with Oburu, highlighting the political significance of his entry into the Orange party.

Despite the warm reception, Sakaja faces the difficult task of convincing existing ODM members that he deserves the party's ticket ahead of politicians who have spent years building their influence within its structures.

The situation could become particularly interesting because ODM has traditionally enjoyed considerable political support in Nairobi, making its nomination an important prize for anyone seeking to occupy City Hall.

With Sakaja seeking another term, Aladwa defending his political ground and Babu Owino maintaining his gubernatorial ambitions, the competition could produce one of the most closely watched political contests in the capital.

The question now is whether Sakaja's relationship with the late Raila Odinga's political establishment and his new alliance with ODM will give him an advantage or whether established party members will challenge his ambitions during the nomination process.

Who do you think deserves the ODM ticket for Nairobi governor in 2027: Johnson Sakaja, Babu Owino or George Aladwa?