Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku wants to be Nairobi's next governor. He announced his plans on Tuesday while addressing residents of South B, The Star reported. His bid could set up a contest against Governor Johnson Sakaja in the 2027 General Election.
Ruku said Nairobi needs a leader with integrity, vision and the drive to fix the county's longstanding problems. He described the city as a national asset, not just a county. "Nairobi is for all Kenyans, is the capital city of our country, and must be led as such," he said, calling it the hub of East Africa.
The CS said the next governor must show honesty, commitment and a clear development agenda to unlock Nairobi's economic potential. He also pointed to his record as an elected leader. "Is there any problem if I vie and get elected here in Nairobi? Am I not able to lead this county?" he asked the crowd.
Business Today reported that Ruku has positioned himself as a potential United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate. His entry comes at a sensitive time for the ruling party. Sakaja recently left UDA for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). On Tuesday, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga and Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati formally received him at Chungwa House, the party's headquarters, The Star reported.
Ruku won the Mbeere North parliamentary seat in 2022 on a Democratic Party of Kenya ticket. President William Ruto nominated him to the Cabinet in March 2025. After Parliament approved him, he took over the Public Service docket from former CS Justin Muturi.
The field is already crowded. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is positioning himself for the seat through the Linda Mwananchi Movement, according to The Star. Embakasi North MP James Gakuya and Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri have also declared interest.