By Samson Wire
President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja are building a formidable case for continuity. As the 2027 General Elections draw closer, their tight alliance, visible development wins, and recent electoral momentum position them strongly for resounding victories. From massive infrastructure pushes to youth-focused programs, the signs point to a commanding comeback for both leaders.
President Ruto has masterfully expanded his coalition through the broad-based government, incorporating former rivals and stabilizing his base. This approach has blunted opposition challenges, with recent by-elections delivering clear wins for UDA-aligned candidates. In the latest round, UDA secured Isiolo South MP (Mohamed Tubi), West Kabras ward (Elphas Shalakha), Evurore ward (Duncan Muratia), and Muminji ward (Peterson Njeru). These results reinforce Ruto’s grip, especially in key regions, and highlight effective zoning arrangements that minimize intra-alliance clashes.
Governor Sakaja, a steadfast UDA ally, rides this wave. His cordial ties with both Ruto and ODM figures fuel speculation of broad endorsements. Joint tours in Nairobi draw enthusiastic crowds chanting “Tutam,” signaling strong grassroots backing for their continued leadership.
Governor Sakaja is transforming Nairobi into a “working city” with ambitious, high-impact projects. A landmark collaboration with the national government has unlocked billions in funding, including an 80 billion shillings regeneration program focused on environmental upgrades, drainage improvements, and youth job creation for thousands of Nairobians.
Key infrastructure strides include:
– A comprehensive road master plan rehabilitating networks across 85 wards and 17 sub-counties, in partnership with Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA). Works target Embakasi East and West, Umoja, Fedha, Komarock, Kilimani, Likoni, Nairobi West (Kusaini Road), and CBD enhancements like Moi Avenue, Timboroa Lane, and Mfangano Lane.
– Drainage upgrades covering 204 km, including Mihango Bypass, to end chronic flooding.
– A 161 km road expansion plan featuring 17 new bridges for better mobility and safety.
These efforts address long-standing resident concerns like poor roads, flooding, and public safety, delivering faster results through national-county synergy.
Sakaja’s flagship “Dishi na County” school feeding program now serves over 316,000 learners across more than 216 public primary schools in all 17 sub-counties. By tackling hunger and boosting attendance, it has dramatically improved nutrition, enrollment, and academic performance for Nairobi’s children. The initiative continues to expand, with recent phases adding dozens more schools.
Complementing this, Sakaja has disbursed thousands of bursary cheques from his own initiatives, while national capitation supports millions of learners countrywide. Joint events—like classroom commissions at Kihumbuini and Westlands primaries, complete with desks, learning materials, and pupil engagements—showcase Ruto-Sakaja teamwork in action.
The national Nyota program has empowered 1.8 million young Kenyans with opportunities, and Nairobi beneficiaries gain extra boosts. Sakaja recently waived business permit fees for Nyota startups and supported disbursements of hundreds of millions in capital to fuel entrepreneurship in the city and beyond. These moves create sustainable jobs and livelihoods, earning loyalty among the youth vote—a critical bloc for 2027.
While a “United Opposition” pushes for unity and figures like Edwin Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi movement emerge, the field remains fragmented. By-election losses expose weaknesses, and Ruto’s coalition appears better organized and resourced. Analysts note Ruto’s focus on development delivery over rhetoric gives him an edge, with some even forecasting a strong performance despite economic pressures.
As the clock ticks toward 2027, Ruto and Sakaja’s blend of strategic partnerships, on-the-ground results, and voter enthusiasm makes their re-election feel not just possible—but highly probable. In a nation hungry for progress, their track record of delivery could prove decisive. Tutam!
