Ronald Karauri dumps ODM, joins UDA days after Sakaja ditched ruling party

Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri has joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as he prepares to vie for the Nairobi governorship in the 2027 General Election. This development comes shortly after Governor Johnson Sakaja defected from UDA to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), creating a new political competition for control of Nairobi's City Hall.

Karauri, who has been eyeing the gubernatorial seat since February, announced his intention to challenge Sakaja, vowing to tackle issues like poor roads, garbage collection, and water shortages. His decision to align with UDA provides him with an enhanced political platform to pursue his ambition, as he took his seat in Parliament in 2022 as an independent candidate after winning the Kasarani constituency.

This move also transforms the political landscape in Nairobi, where Sakaja's shift from UDA to ODM has altered the power dynamics among parties striving for control of the capital. Sakaja, who secured the governorship on a UDA ticket in 2022, officially joined ODM on November 2 and is expected to seek a second term. The ODM Deputy Party Leader, Simba Arati, affirmed that the party will hold free and fair nominations, warning that aspirants seeking the Nairobi seat must contend for the ticket.

Karauri had previously criticized Sakaja's move, alleging that he is seeking a new political platform to divert attention from his performance in City Hall. His ambitious plan for the city includes auditing buildings and development approvals, improving revenue collection, and redirecting county spending towards essential services.

Karauri has also pledged to enhance accountability in county spending, ensuring that every payment, contract, and project is traceable to the services delivered to residents.