Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has announced his intention to vie for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Kuria said he was inspired by President William Ruto’s recent remarks about the poor state of the capital city. He pledged to take up the challenge to transform Nairobi into a cleaner, more efficient metropolis.
“Dear President William Ruto, today you spoke to my heart. Like Prime Minister Baba Raila Amolo Odinga has told me countless times, Nairobi cannot continue to be the city of filth, garbage, and incompetence. I have heard your cry. That is why I will offer myself to be the Governor of the great County of Nairobi in 2027. I will fix Nairobi,” Kuria declared.
Kuria joins an increasingly crowded race to unseat incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja. Others who have expressed interest include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, Makadara MP George Aladwa, businesswoman Agnes Kagure, and former PS Irungu Nyakera.
The former Gatundu South MP previously contested the Kiambu governorship in 2022 but was unsuccessful. He later served as Cabinet Secretary for Trade and as President Ruto’s senior economic adviser.
Kuria’s announcement follows President Ruto’s unveiling of a joint plan between the national and Nairobi County governments aimed at restoring the city’s image. The initiative focuses on cleaning the city, improving roads, and enhancing street lighting.
“We must make sure that Nairobi represents the right image of Kenya,” President Ruto said, adding that the government is partnering with private sector players to expand ongoing cleanup efforts under the Nairobi River Regeneration Project.
As the race for Nairobi’s top seat heats up, Kuria’s entry adds political intrigue to a contest that is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the 2027 elections.
