Tough Times For Sifuna As Sakaja Is Named To Replace Him In Senatorial Role In New ODM Move

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing fresh political realignments in Nairobi as reports emerge that the party is considering fielding Governor Johnson Sakaja for the Senate seat in 2027, effectively replacing current Senator Edwin Sifuna.

The move is part of a broader strategy that could see Makadara MP and Nairobi ODM chair George Aladwa take the party’s gubernatorial ticket.

ODM insiders say the plan follows the exit of key party figures from city politics, including Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, who is eyeing Bungoma governorship, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who is leaning towards Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s camp.

With Wanyonyi and Babu shifting focus, ODM is banking on Aladwa’s grassroots influence and Mulembe community support to retain control of City Hall.

Several party officials have publicly backed Aladwa, citing his leadership record as former Nairobi Mayor and his unwavering loyalty to ODM.

Sources indicate that ODM leader Raila Odinga personally urged Aladwa to shelve his Vihiga governorship ambitions in favor of staying in Nairobi for what he termed a “bigger seat.”

In turn, Sakaja whose performance as governor has faced criticism would be offered the senatorial ticket, creating an unexpected challenge for Sifuna.

The proposal has sparked mixed reactions within ODM, with some members questioning whether Sakaja can help the party maintain influence in Nairobi, while others see the arrangement as a strategic trade-off to consolidate power ahead of 2027.

If approved, the plan could reshape Nairobi’s political landscape and put Sifuna in a precarious position.