Makadara Member of Parliament (MP) George Aladwa has officially announced his bid for the Nairobi Governor seat in the 2027 general election, vowing to contest on the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket.

Speaking to the press on Thursday, October 2, 2025, Aladwa expressed confidence in his candidacy, emphasising that ODM is the only viable path to securing the governor’s seat in the capital.

“Ule yoyote anataka kiti ya gavana, akuje kwa ODM. Na mimi pia, nakaa kwa hiyo kiti ya gavana kwa ODM. Kwa hivyo kama kuna mtu anataka kusimama, tukutane kwa debe. Kwa hivyo pia mimi nimesema… Mimi pia si nimetosha?” Aladwa declared.

He further acknowledged that not everyone agrees with his views, but stressed the importance of boldness in leadership.

“Najua kuna wengine hawawezi kupenda mambo nimesema lakini huwezi kupendwa na kila mtu. Lazima kazi ianze,” he added.

Early entry into the race

Aladwa’s announcement positions him as a key contender in what is expected to be a highly competitive race within ODM and beyond. The Nairobi governor’s seat has historically attracted strong political interest due to its strategic role in Kenya’s political and economic landscape.

His early declaration also signals ODM’s intent to strengthen its influence in Nairobi ahead of the 2027 elections.

Aladwa’s move follows a strategic meeting convened by ODM leader Raila Odinga on September 2, 2025, during discussions on the impeachment motion against Governor Johnson Sakaja.

He revealed that the closed-door talks produced a unanimous decision to pause the impeachment process, granting Sakaja time to address concerns raised by the Nairobi County Assembly. The impeachment attempt had gained momentum, with more than 70 MCAs signing in support of the motion.

The impeachment pause, which followed interventions by President William Ruto and Raila Odinga, sparked criticism from several leaders. Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga argued that the MCAs’ oversight role had been undermined. At the same time, Migori Senator Eddy Oketch cautioned that ODM’s alliance with the United Democratic Alliance could face challenges without stronger party structures.

Political divisions emerge

Meanwhile, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has continued to mount pressure on Sakaja, warning that he will be voted out in 2027. Speaking in Kisumu on September 8, 2025, Babu cited failures in service delivery, particularly in the healthcare sector, and called out challenges at Mama Lucy Hospital, where patients reportedly lack essential services.