Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja has confirmed his candidacy for the 2022 Nairobi Governor election, rejecting suggestions he would withdraw in favor of other contenders. The first-term senator emphasized his long-term vision for the city during an interview with Capital FM News.
Sakaja previously sought the governorship in 2017 but withdrew to support former Nairobi County boss Mike Sonko. He now asserts his experience as a legislator has prepared him to implement policies benefiting the capital. "I have been on a political journey not just for positions but for what I believe we can achieve as a city," he stated.
The senator highlighted his legislative record, including being rated the top-performing senator by Mzalendo and receiving the President's Chief of Burning Spear award. He noted Nairobi's equitable revenue share increased from Sh15 billion to Sh19 billion during his tenure. "You trust somebody with something small and see what they are able to do with it," Sakaja said.
Current city operations are managed by Nairobi Metropolitan Services under Lieutenant General Mohamed Badi following Mike Sonko's 2020 impeachment. Ann Kananu serves as acting governor after previously being considered as Sakaja's deputy.