Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has said his decision to stay largely silent on political matters in the capital should not be mistaken for a lack of political understanding, warning that he can shift approach if necessary.
Speaking on Thursday outside City Hall after the presidential address at the Nairobi City County Assembly, Sakaja said some leaders have misread his quiet approach to leadership.
“Some people think that they know politics here in Nairobi,” he said. “I have chosen to focus on my work, and many times I keep quiet, but that should not be misunderstood.”
The governor’s remarks come amid heightened political activity in Nairobi, with leaders positioning themselves and engaging more aggressively in public discourse.
Sakaja suggested that his restraint has been deliberate, aimed at prioritising service delivery over political confrontation.
However, he signalled that the approach could change.
“The day we take off our coats and fold our shirts, we will chase them out of Nairobi,” he said.
The statement, delivered to a crowd of residents, was seen as a warning that he is prepared to engage more directly in political contests if pushed.
At the same time, Sakaja emphasised the need to keep Nairobi free from divisive politics, particularly along ethnic lines.
“Nairobi does not need tribal politics. Nairobi has 47 communities,” he said, underscoring the city’s diversity.
He said the capital should remain open and inclusive to all, regardless of political affiliation.
“We are broad-based. Nairobi is for everyone, and no one should feel excluded,” Sakaja said.
The governor also acknowledged the presence of supporters from different political formations, including ODM and UDA, saying such diversity reflects the city’s political landscape.
The governor reiterated that his leadership is focused on delivering services rather than engaging in constant political exchanges.
“I have committed myself to working for the people of Nairobi,” he said.
Sakaja has recently faced mounting criticism from a section of leaders but has largely refrained from responding publicly.
His remarks reflect the pressure leaders face in balancing governance and political visibility, particularly in Nairobi, which remains a key political centre.
The suggested a shift may be on the horizon, as leaders increasingly position themselves ahead of future political contests.
For now, the governor maintains that his priority remains service delivery, but his warning signals readiness to respond more forcefully in the political arena if circumstances demand.
