‘Let’s Walk Together!’ – Governor Sakaja Responds To Calls To Join ODM
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja had a funny answer to requests from Raila Odinga’s fervent supporters pushing him to join the Orange Democratic Movement.
Sakaja was among the leaders who attended Raila’s special prayers in Kenya’s Bomas on Monday, February 10, before the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson election.
While the event was largely intended to boost Raila’s AUC bid, some ODM officials tried to encourage Sakaja to join their party.
AUC Chairperson Candidate Raila Odinga entrusted Governor Johnson Sakaja with overseeing Nairobi’s political affairs in his absence, reassuring ODM supporters that Sakaja will be at the helm to maintain unity and stability in the city. pic.twitter.com/goWWM9e11D
— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) February 10, 2025
The leaders, led by Makadara MP George Aladwa, took advantage of the opportunity to court Sakaja.
“Baba, as you go to fight for your position at the AUC, I want to urge our governor, Sakaja, to leave UDA and join ODM. Let’s walk together,” Aladwa stated.
Aladwa also took a dig at the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), adding, “At our party, we love each other. There is no hatred or jealousy.”
Gladys Wanga, the governor of Homa Bay, reiterated his comments and encouraged Nairobi County to accept the ODM proposal.
Sakaja, who played a crucial role in organizing the special prayer session at Kenya’s Bomas, did not avoid the conversation but responded vaguely to calls for him to leave UDA.
“I’ve heard what Aladwa and (Gladys) Wanga have said. Where there are clouds, there is rain,” Sakaja stated.
“In two weeks, I want to have a meeting with ODM bosses in Nairobi. I want to show you that I’m one of you.”
During the same ceremony, Raila Odinga, who wields enormous political power in Nairobi, appeared to support Sakaja for re-election, implying that he will keep his seat in the next election.
“I want Nairobi to remain united and strong. My son here will take charge,” Raila stated.
Despite not being a member of the ODM, Sakaja has maintained close contact with Raila, even before the AUC chair candidate restored his ties with President William Ruto.
Nairobi Governor Sakaja to abandon UDA for ODM. What mistakes could the ruling party have made to deserve such humiliation? pic.twitter.com/2hFDpLXGEi
— Thirsty Kipsoiwet 🇰🇪 🇳🇱 (@Makiadi_) February 10, 2025
Sakaja and Raila have recently been seen attending large events together.
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Their most recent overseas involvement saw the governor follow Odinga to the Mjadala Afrika discussion for AUC candidates in Addis Ababa on 13th December 2024.
Sakaja’s latest words are sure to elicit reactions from ODM members, especially because some party leaders remain skeptical of him.
Babu Owino, an MP from Embakasi East, recently chastised Raila over claims that the former Prime Minister had endorsed Sakaja for the Nairobi governor seat in 2027.
The MP also characterized Sakaja’s support for Raila’s AUC bid as a “political gimmick.”
‘Let’s Walk Together!’ – Governor Sakaja Responds To Calls To Join ODM
