Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja and Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir, both vying for governor seats in their respective cities, have dismissed concerns about their strongest opponents, focusing instead on campaign priorities ahead of the August 9 elections.
Sakaja, running under the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, emphasized that Nairobi voters recognize his long-term commitment to the city, stating, "Nairobians know both of us, they know who has been there, who has been resilient." He highlighted his vision for "a city of order and dignity," while downplaying competition from Jubilee Party candidate Polycarp Igathe.
Nassir, competing against Wiper Party's Mike Sonko in Mombasa, echoed similar confidence, declaring, "I worry about being a better version of where I was yesterday." His campaign centers on improving governance and infrastructure, with a focus on water access and economic reforms.
Polling data from the Nation Media Group indicates Sakaja holds 37% support in Nairobi, compared to Igathe's 21%, while Nassir leads Sonko 40% to 33% in Mombasa. Both candidates have pledged to address water scarcity, a critical issue in their regions.
Sakaja outlined plans to resolve Nairobi's water deficit, noting the city currently receives 525,600 liters daily but requires 1 million. He promised to modernize distribution systems and eliminate water cartels by 2023. Nassir proposed desalination projects to reduce reliance on jerrycans, stating, "The cost of desalinated water would be cheaper than jerry can prices." Both candidates also pledged to streamline business licensing and implement school feeding programs.