In a move set to reshape the political landscape of the capital, former Trade and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has announced his candidacy for Nairobi Governor in the 2027 general election. The declaration positions him as a formidable challenger to the incumbent, Johnson Sakaja, and adds a new layer of intrigue to the succession politics of Kenya's most critical county.

The announcement is a direct answer to President William Ruto's recent public frustrations over the deteriorating state of the city. Kuria noted that the President's lament about a capital mired in "filth, garbage, and incompetence" resonated deeply with him. "I have heard your cry. That is why I will offer myself to be the Governor of the great County of Nairobi in 2027. I will fix Nairobi," Kuria stated in a widely circulated social media post.

A City's Woes, A Political Opportunity

Kuria's entry into the gubernatorial race taps into widespread public discontent with the management of Nairobi. Residents have long grappled with issues ranging from inconsistent garbage collection and poor road networks to inadequate street lighting. President Ruto himself has pledged national government support to tackle these challenges, announcing a partnership with the county and the private sector to overhaul waste management and improve infrastructure. This initiative, however, has raised concerns for Kuria, who warned that a national government takeover of key functions is not a sustainable solution, citing interferences by past governments.

The former Gatundu South MP, known for his combative and populist political style, is no stranger to the national stage. His tenure in the cabinet was marked by both pro-business initiatives and controversy. His gubernatorial bid is seen by analysts as a strategic move after resigning as a senior adviser to President Ruto, with some speculating it is a calculated step to consolidate his political base ahead of 2027.

A Crowded and Contentious Field

The race for City Hall is quickly becoming a crowded affair, promising a heated contest. Among those who have declared their interest are:

• Babu Owino: The fiery Embakasi East MP has officially declared his candidacy, stating he will run with or without the backing of his ODM party.
• Tony Gachoka: The journalist and political analyst has also thrown his hat into the ring, joining the KANU party to launch his bid.
• Johnson Sakaja: While he has not made a formal declaration, the incumbent governor is widely expected to seek re-election.

Recent polls indicate a fluid race. A March 2025 survey by the Centre for African Progress (CAP) placed Babu Owino in the lead with 38% of voter support, followed by former Dagoretti South MP Dennis Waweru at 31%, and Governor Sakaja trailing at 14%. The same poll found that an overwhelming 92% of Nairobians are unhappy with the current county administration.

Kuria's political ambitions have been a subject of speculation for months, with previous hints pointing towards a potential presidential run. His decision to focus on the Nairobi governorship signals a potential realignment of his political strategy, aiming to secure a significant power base in the country's economic and political hub.

As the 2027 election cycle draws nearer, Kuria's candidacy promises to inject a new dynamic into Nairobi's politics. His campaign, focused on a platform of fixing the city's endemic problems, will be closely watched by a restive electorate yearning for tangible change in their daily lives—from cleaner streets to safer neighbourhoods.