James Gakuya Builds Strong Early Support in Nairobi Governorship Race Ahead of Elections

Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, is witnessing a growing wave of political realignment as Embakasi North MP James Gakuya emerges as a frontrunner in the race for governor. According to a citywide opinion survey conducted on October 6, 2025, Gakuya currently commands 45% of voter support — positioning him as the leading candidate if elections were held today.

The poll reflects a broader shift in Nairobi’s political climate, where frustrations over taxation, urban service delivery, and youth unemployment are redefining voter priorities. Gakuya’s rise underscores a growing appetite for populist, street-level leadership that connects directly with ordinary citizens — from hawkers and boda boda riders to small-scale traders.

A Changing Urban Narrative
Gakuya’s political brand blends grassroots activism with a pro-poor, anti-establishment tone that resonates with Nairobi’s working class. He has been a vocal critic of Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration, accusing it of inefficiency, waste mismanagement, and mistreatment of informal workers.

His open opposition to President William Ruto’s taxation policies has also amplified his appeal among Kenyans burdened by the rising cost of living — signaling an emerging divide between national fiscal priorities and local economic realities.

Championing Youth and Civic Rights
In a city where young people make up the majority of voters, Gakuya has positioned himself as a defender of Gen Z voices, often speaking out against police brutality and advocating for reforms in urban policing and employment creation.

The Bigger Picture
International observers note that Nairobi’s upcoming governorship race is not merely a local contest but a barometer of Kenya’s broader political mood. As East Africa’s commercial and diplomatic hub, the city’s leadership has regional significance — influencing policy trends across the continent in areas such as urban governance, trade, and digital innovation.

If Gakuya’s momentum holds, his potential victory could mark a turning point in Nairobi’s governance — signaling the rise of a new populist wave focused on inclusivity, accountability, and the empowerment of everyday citizens.