Embakasi North MP James Gakuya has emerged as the frontrunner in the upcoming Nairobi gubernatorial race James Gakuya leads the 2027 Nairobi governor race in a new poll, with Babu Owino trailing in second place. This is according to a new opinion poll released by Compass Polls. Who would lead Nairobi if elections were held today? The survey, which involved 5,000 respondents, was conducted through face-to-face household interviews across all 17 constituencies in the capital. If Nairobi residents went to the polls today, James Gakuya would emerge as the leading candidate with 45% support. According to the poll, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino would come in second with 30%, while current governor Johnson Sakaja would trail at 13%.
Political analysts share list of top 5 Businesswoman Agnes Kagure would garner 6%, former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera 4%, and 2% of voters said they were still undecided. Why Gakuya is leading the Nairobi governor race ahead of 2027 According to the pollsters, Gakuya’s rising popularity stems from his close connection with Nairobi’s working-class population and his strong presence in both mainstream and digital media. He has built a reputation as a “champion of hustlers,” positioning himself as a leader who understands the daily struggles of ordinary residents. His open criticism of excessive taxation and corruption in public service has also resonated with voters, especially the youth who view him as a bold and unwavering voice for accountability. The MP has also won support among Gen Z and informal sector workers for consistently defending hawkers, boda boda riders, and small traders. His grassroots approach, frequent public engagements, and relatable communication style have strengthened his appeal in Nairobi’s most populous areas. Babu Owino, who has hinted at vying through the ODM party, came second in the race.
His strong performance was attributed to his education initiatives, including the provision of bursaries to needy students, and his vocal stance on social and economic issues affecting city residents. His youthful energy and frequent social media engagement continue to endear him to younger voters. James Gakuya would be Nairobi governor if elections were held today, according to a recent poll. Why are some Nairobi residents against Sakaja? Sakaja’s ratings, however, have dipped sharply. Respondents cited corruption, absentee leadership, discrimination, arrogance, and the eviction of hawkers among his administration’s major failures. Many residents expressed disappointment, saying the governor had lost touch with the people who elected him. Agnes Kagure, who ranked fourth, was commended for her efforts in empowering youth and women, providing food to vulnerable families, and supporting the education of needy children in informal settlements. Meanwhile, Nyakera was praised for his efforts to promote youth and women empowerment and improve education standards.
The poll also revealed that nearly 4,000 respondents remain open-minded, saying they are waiting to see if a new, unannounced candidate might enter the race before making their decision. Why are Nairobi residents praising Gakuya’s leadership? TUKO.co.ke previously reported that Gakuya was hailed for his strong record in education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment, earning him recognition as one of Nairobi’s best-performing lawmakers. Under his leadership, schools in Embakasi North have been upgraded with modern classrooms and laboratories, while bursary programs have expanded to support thousands of students. Key projects include new learning blocks at Kariobangi North Girls Secondary and the upgrading of Wangu and James Gichuru schools.
By Harry Ivan Mboto
