Geoffrey Ruku Declares Nairobi Governor Bid, Questions Sakaja’s Leadership Record

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has officially declared his intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the August 10, 2027 General Election, adding another contender to an increasingly competitive race for City Hall.

Ruku announced that he would seek the position on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, barely two days after incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja formally joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

The Cabinet Secretary says his decision is informed by what he considers persistent challenges in the management of Nairobi, particularly in the delivery of essential services to residents.

Speaking in an interview with the Nation, Ruku questioned why Nairobi continues to experience difficulties in addressing basic urban challenges despite being Kenya’s capital and a major economic centre in the region.

He cited garbage collection, unreliable water supply, poor road conditions, inadequate housing and urban planning as some of the issues requiring attention.

“There are serious leadership issues as far as Nairobi is concerned. Even getting one flagship project right, even making Nairobi clean is a problem. Why should it be a problem in this age?” Ruku posed.

He maintained that the county requires leadership focused on improving service delivery and addressing problems affecting residents and businesses.

Ruku also argued that Nairobi’s leadership should reflect the city’s national and international importance, noting that the capital is home to Kenyans from different communities.

“Nairobi is for all Kenyans, is the capital city of our country, and must be led as such. This is the hub of East Africa and the greater East and Central Business Hub,” he stated.

The CS defended his suitability for the position by pointing to his previous experience in elective politics. He served as Mbeere North Member of Parliament after winning the constituency seat in the 2022 General Election.

He questioned whether his previous leadership experience should prevent him from seeking the Nairobi governorship, insisting that he was capable of offering his services to the county.

Ruku also dismissed ethnic-based calculations in determining Nairobi’s political leadership, arguing that residents should evaluate aspirants based on their agendas and ability to address the city’s challenges.

He further addressed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political influence, recalling their rivalry during the Mbeere North by-election and expressing readiness to face his political camp in Nairobi.

The Cabinet Secretary also questioned whether Sakaja’s decision to join ODM would change how voters assess his performance, arguing that the governor’s record should remain central to the 2027 contest.

Nairobi gubernatorial race attracts more aspirants

Ruku’s declaration comes as several politicians position themselves for the Nairobi governorship ahead of the next General Election.

Sakaja, who was elected governor in 2022 on a UDA ticket, has joined ODM as he seeks another term in office.

His entry into ODM has also introduced a possible party nomination contest with Makadara MP George Aladwa, who serves as the party’s Nairobi chairman and has expressed interest in the same seat.

Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri has also indicated interest in the ODM ticket.

Other politicians associated with the contest include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who is pursuing the seat through the Mwananchi Party, and Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, who is associated with the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

Former Starehe MP Margaret Wanjiru and Nairobi County Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria have also been linked to the gubernatorial contest.

The growing list of aspirants points to a competitive political contest, with party nominations and possible political alliances expected to shape the race.

Service delivery likely to dominate campaigns

The management of Nairobi’s public services is expected to feature prominently in discussions ahead of the election.

Garbage collection, road maintenance, drainage, water supply, healthcare, housing and traffic congestion remain among the issues facing the county.

Sakaja’s administration will also face scrutiny over its record in revenue collection and the management of public resources as he seeks another term.

Nairobi County reported collecting Sh15.399 billion in own-source revenue during the 2025/2026 financial year, compared with Sh13.8 billion in the preceding financial year.

However, questions about expenditure, waste management contracts and the delivery of services are likely to remain part of the debate surrounding the county government’s performance.

For Ruku, the challenge will be to present his proposed solutions to these concerns while building a political support base in a county with diverse communities and competing political interests.

With the 2027 General Election approaching, Nairobi’s gubernatorial contest is taking shape as aspirants begin outlining their ambitions and positioning themselves for the battle to control City Hall.