Sakaja Admits Pressure to Quit UDA for ODM, Says Decision Is Not Made

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has acknowledged pressure from senior ODM figures to leave the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), but says he has not made a decision.

Speaking during a radio interview, Sakaja said senior ODM officials, as well as youth and women leaders, had urged him to cross over. He said the calls could not be ignored. Sakaja linked the overtures to his close relationship with the late Raila Odinga, whom he described as a father figure. He said Odinga had encouraged him to join ODM before his death.

“We were very close; he was like my father, and he also wanted that,” Sakaja said, as the first anniversary of Odinga’s death approaches.

However, Sakaja said he would not rush into a decision, stressing that his political choices must reflect the wishes of Nairobi residents. He described himself as “an employee of the people” and said he would act according to their wishes.

The governor did not give a timeline for leaving UDA, saying he would continue assessing the political situation before making a decision. Sakaja also thanked ODM members for supporting him despite his current party affiliation. He acknowledged that he had received political support from both UDA and members of the now-defunct The National Alliance (TNA).

His comments came a day after Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua said UDA’s influence in Nairobi was declining. Gachagua, who has welcomed defectors into his party, cited Sakaja as an example of the ruling party’s weakening position in the capital.

“UDA is done. I hear Sakaja wants to move to ODM led by Oburu. We wish you the best,” Gachagua said.