Embakasi East: Two-Horse Race Emerging Between Stazo Omungala and Francis Mureithi — Intouch Poll

The race for the Embakasi East parliamentary seat is beginning to take clearer shape, with recent research by Intouch Polls suggesting that the contest is increasingly narrowing into a two-horse race between Upper Savanna MCA Hon. Stazo Elijah Omungala and Francis Mureithi. According to voter preference trends captured in the survey, the two candidates are emerging as the most viable contenders as other aspirants trail behind. Current voter preference: • Stazo Omungala – 37% • Francis Mureithi – 31% • Tina Ogal – 18% • Patrick Karani – 7% • Others – 8% Analysts say the dynamics of the race are now being defined less by the number of candidates and more by the perceived viability of those seen as capable of mounting a serious challenge. The next phase of the campaign is expected to be shaped by momentum on the ground, the ability of candidates to consolidate their bases, and the confidence they inspire among undecided voters. Hon. Stazo Elijah Omungala, the current MCA for Upper Savanna Ward, has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in the race. In a separate ranking within the same research, Omungala was placed fourth among the best-performing MCAs in Nairobi, a position that has further boosted his profile. Despite the growing speculation, Omungala has not yet officially declared his intention to run for the parliamentary seat. Political observers note that his decision may partly be influenced by the broader political calculations within the ODM party, particularly the moves of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. Babu Owino has strongly indicated that he will contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the next election. Current research trends continue to place him second in the governor’s race behind incumbent Johnson Sakaja, and ahead of ODM Nairobi Chairman George Aladwa. Should Bbau formally shift his focus to the gubernatorial race, the Embakasi East parliamentary seat would become open, potentially triggering an intense contest among what is known as the Broad-based-aligned candidates. Within that scenario, Omungala is widely viewed as a strong contender for the ODM ticket. He enjoys a comfortable political network within the party and has built significant grassroots support, particularly in Upper Savanna and Lower Savanna wards, where he maintains a very strong presence. Beyond his local base, Omungala is also seen as having cultivated strong relationships with several Nairobi-based political players and influencers, a factor that could strengthen his campaign should he officially enter the race. Meanwhile, Francis Mureithi continues to consolidate his own support base, setting the stage for what analysts believe could evolve into one of the most closely watched parliamentary contests in Nairobi. With months still ahead before the political season reaches its peak, much will depend on how candidates build momentum, win over undecided voters, and position themselves within the shifting alliances that typically shape Nairobi’s political landscape.