Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri Joins UDA to Challenge Sakaja for Nairobi Seat

Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri has officially ended his independent political status to join the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), launching a formal bid to unseat Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in the 2027 General Election.

Karauri was unveiled on Monday, November 9, 2026, at the party's Nairobi headquarters. UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wa officially welcomed the legislator into the fold.

“Today, I take a new political step by joining the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as I pursue my ambition to serve Nairobi as Governor in 2027,” Karauri said during the ceremony.

The lawmaker, who won the Kasarani parliamentary seat as an independent candidate in 2022, said his choice followed a careful review of available options. He credited his tenure representing Kasarani with shaping his desire to scale up his leadership to the county level.

“I have served the people of Kasarani as an Independent MP, and I remain grateful for their trust. Nairobi has not worked. We want a better Nairobi,” he declared. He adopted the campaign slogan “Nairobi Haijawork. Tunataka Nairobi Fiti” to outline his platform.

Karauri pointed to the party’s governing philosophy as a key driver for his alignment, citing the "Usawa ni sawa" policy. He said that the approach ensures every citizen matters, every voice counts, and every ward receives equitable attention.

Welcoming him to the party, Ichung'wa emphasized UDA's foundational values and inclusive vision for national transformation.

“UDA remains a party anchored on the principle of Usawa ni Sawa, equal opportunity, fairness, and inclusivity for all,” Ichung'wa said, adding that the party is committed to building an environment where every Kenyan has an equal stake.

Karauri’s entry into the ruling party follows Governor Sakaja's departure from UDA on November 2, 2026, after which the incumbent announced plans to defend his seat on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket. Sakaja's switch to ODM was welcomed by party officials, including Simba Arati and Junet Mohammed.

The political landscape for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat is rapidly turning into one of the most competitive contests of the 2027 polls. Aside from Governor Sakaja, Karauri will square off against several other prominent figures seeking the county's top job.

The rival field includes Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, Makadara MP George Aladwa, and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku. Additional aspirants feature businesswoman Agnes Kagure, veteran journalist Tony Gachoka, and former Nairobi County Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria, who was dismissed by Sakaja in October.

Despite securing a prominent position within the ruling party's Nairobi lineup, Karauri stated that he would respect the outcome of the party primaries ahead of the August 2027 elections.

Before venturing into politics, Karauri established a strong public profile as the Chief Executive Officer of a popular betting company, alongside extensive involvement in football sponsorships and grassroots youth initiatives.