A new poll by ISS Africa shows a major shift in Nairobi politics. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is now the frontrunner for the 2027 Nairobi governor seat.
The survey, conducted across all 17 constituencies, found Owino enjoys 28.1% support, while incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja trails at 16.4%.
Young Voters Drive Owino’s Popularity
Owino’s popularity is strongest among Gen-Z voters aged 18-24, with 62% saying they would vote for him. His support is also concentrated in the Eastlands area, where 32% of adults aged 25-32 back him.
This trend shows a growing generational shift in Nairobi’s political landscape.
Other Contenders
Former Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa) chairperson Irungu Nyakera is also gaining support, with 19.2%, slightly ahead of Sakaja.
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya is an outside contender, favored by 11.2% of Nairobians, mainly his constituents.
Owino, part of the Kenya Moja movement, has gained traction since announcing his candidacy, signaling new dynamics in city politics.
Sakaja Faces Challenges
Governor Sakaja remains backed by supporters of President William Ruto’s government. Nyakera draws support from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s DCP party.
Sakaja has also faced political turbulence. Nairobi MCAs attempted to impeach him over alleged undelivered promises, particularly on bursary allocations.
Sakaja defended his record, noting that Ksh1.6 billion had been distributed in bursaries over three years, compared to Ksh3 billion by previous governors. He explained delays were caused by a ban on bursary allocation.
A Changing Political Scene
The poll indicates that Nairobi’s 2027 governor race could be reshaped by younger leaders like Babu Owino. Generational change and evolving voter preferences are now central to the city’s politics.
