Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has announced his intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, potentially setting up a contest against incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja.
Speaking to residents in South B, Nairobi, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Ruku said he was ready to take over the leadership of the capital and introduce changes aimed at improving service delivery and transforming the city.
The Cabinet Secretary argued that Nairobi needs a leader with integrity, vision and strong leadership skills, saying the capital deserves leadership capable of addressing its challenges and unlocking its economic potential.
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“Nairobi is for all Kenyans, is the capital city of our country, and must be led as such. This is the hub of East Africa and the greater East and Central Business Hub,” Ruku said.
He added that whoever occupies the governor's office must demonstrate honesty, hard work, vision and integrity to steer the county towards meaningful development.
Ruku Defends His Leadership Credentials
Ruku also defended his suitability for the position, pointing to his previous experience in elective politics and questioning why he should not be considered for the Nairobi governorship.
“You people know very well that I was previously an elected leader. Is there any problem if I vie and get elected here in Nairobi? Am I not able to lead this county?” he posed.
Before joining President William Ruto's Cabinet, Ruku served as the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North Constituency, having been elected in the 2022 General Election on a Democratic Party of Kenya ticket.
He was nominated to the Cabinet in March 2025 and subsequently approved by Parliament, taking over the Public Service docket from former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi.
Nairobi Political Contest Takes Shape
Ruku's declaration comes amid political realignments in Nairobi ahead of the 2027 elections.
Governor Johnson Sakaja recently moved from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a development that has added another dimension to the city's political landscape.
On Tuesday, November 3, Sakaja was received at ODM headquarters, Chungwa House, by senior party officials, including party chairperson Gladys Wanga and Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati.
Meanwhile, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is also positioning himself for the gubernatorial contest through the Linda Mwananchi movement.
Ruku's announcement adds another potential contender to an increasingly competitive Nairobi political race, with the 2027 General Election expected to attract intense competition for control of the capital's county government.