Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has expressed confidence that he can secure a second term in office, dismissing concerns about strong competition from Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Kasarani MP Captain Karauri, who have both declared interest in the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Sunday night, Sakaja said his focus remains on transforming the capital and delivering results rather than worrying about potential challengers.
“I know where I have gotten this city from, I know what the plan is, and I have figured out how to plug the deficit of financing, and you will see the results,” Sakaja said during the interview.
The governor’s remarks came as political talk around the 2027 Nairobi race continues to gain momentum, with several leaders positioning themselves early for the contest in one of Kenya’s most competitive political battlegrounds.
During the interview, host Jeff Koinange asked Sakaja directly whether he believed he could defeat Babu Owino, a vocal legislator who enjoys significant popularity among young voters and has been a strong critic of the broad-based political arrangement in government.
Sakaja responded with confidence.
“I can beat anyone,” he said.
When asked about Kasarani MP Captain Karauri, who has also publicly declared his intention to vie for the Nairobi governor seat, Sakaja initially appeared to downplay the challenge before reiterating his focus on the city’s development.
“Who is that? Oh yeah. I want to see my city change. I have the best intentions for this city; this is where I was born, this is my ushago,” Sakaja added.
The governor framed his leadership around a long-term vision for Nairobi, saying he understands the city’s financial and structural challenges and has developed a strategy to address them.
Political observers note that the Nairobi gubernatorial race is expected to attract intense competition ahead of the 2027 elections, given the county’s economic and political significance.
Babu Owino has been building strong support among urban youth and grassroots networks, while Captain Karauri has also been positioning himself as an alternative leadership option in the capital.
Despite the emerging competition, Sakaja’s latest remarks suggest he intends to anchor his re-election bid on governance record, city development plans, and his personal connection to Nairobi.
With more than a year before the official campaign period begins, the battle for control of City Hall is already beginning to take shape.