Sakaja Leads, Babu Owino Close Behind as Aladwa Leverages ODM Network in Nairobi Governor Race — Intouch Polls

A new gubernatorial preference tracking survey has revealed an increasingly competitive race for the Nairobi governorship, with Johnson Sakaja maintaining lead over his closest challengers. According to the latest comparative tracking data released by Intouch Polls, the incumbent governor commands 32% support, placing him at the top of the early race as political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the next election cycle. Close behind is Babu Owino, the Embakasi East MP, who has registered 29% support, positioning himself as Sakaja’s strongest challenger so far. His numbers suggest he has managed to attract significant backing beyond traditional party lines. Political observers note that a large portion of his support currently comes from non-ODM voters, many of whom are likely to support candidates affiliated with other parties in other electoral seats. Meanwhile, Makadara MP George Aladwa ranks third with 24% support, keeping him firmly within striking distance of the two frontrunners. Aladwa’s strength lies in his long-standing grassroots political network across Nairobi, built over decades of city politics. His influence is further reinforced by the strong grassroots structures of the Orange Democratic Movement, which remains the most popular political party in Nairobi and continues to command significant loyalty among urban voters. Embakasi North MP James Gakuya registers 10% support, placing him fourth in the current standings. Governor Sakaja’s lead is largely attributed to the advantages of incumbency and several flagship programs that have gained visibility across the city. Among the most notable is the “Dishi na County” school feeding programme, which has become one of his administration’s signature social initiatives. The governor has also recently overseen the employment of more than 4,000 youth in the county’s Environment Department. This move has boosted his support among young voters and residents concerned about job creation and city cleanliness. The survey further shows that 5% of respondents support other aspirants, while a notable number of voters remain undecided—an indication that the race is still fluid and could shift as campaigns intensify. Analysts say the findings point to an emerging three-way contest at the top, with Sakaja, Babu Owino, and Aladwa likely to dominate the early stages of the Nairobi gubernatorial battle. With many voters yet to settle on their preferred candidate, the coming months are expected to see heightened political mobilization and coalition-building as aspirants seek to consolidate support across the capital.