Moses Kuria Vows to Unseat Sakaja in 2027, Seeks Ruto’s Support
Moses Kuria has declared he will vie in 2027 to unseat Sakaja as Nairobi governor and is asking for President Ruto’s backing.
In an open letter addressed to Ruto, Kuria said he felt compelled by the state of the capital and by Ruto’s recent remarks. He vowed to restore Nairobi’s reputation as a clean and efficient city.
He wrote: “Dear President William Ruto. Today you spoke to my heart … Nairobi cannot continue to be the city of filth, garbage and incompetence … I will offer myself to be Governor of Nairobi in 2027. I will fix Nairobi.”
Aligning with Ruto’s Urban Reforms
Kuria cited a recent speech by Ruto. During the 70th anniversary of the Africa Inland Church in Ziwani, Ruto spoke of a plan to transform Nairobi. Kuria said the national government and Nairobi County had agreed on four development areas.
He added that a public-private agreement to drive cleanup operations was in advanced stages. He pledged the move would address critical city estates.
Political Ambitions & Early Contestants
Kuria’s bid puts him in direct contest with Johnson Sakaja, the current Nairobi governor. Sakaja, elected in 2022, is expected to defend his seat vigorously.
Other contenders have also expressed interest. These include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and former PS Irungu Nyakera.
Kuria previously failed to win the Kiambu gubernatorial seat in 2022. He later served in Ruto’s administration as Senior Economic Advisor before quitting in July 2025.
Stakes in the Capital Race
If Kuria secures Ruto’s endorsement, the dynamics in Nairobi’s 2027 race may shift. The campaign for Nairobi will test alliances across party lines and question urban management performance.
The key challenge for all candidates will be how to deliver tangible service improvements—especially waste management, drainage, and infrastructure upgrades.
