Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has officially declared his candidacy for the Nairobi gubernatorial election of 2027, citing the city’s deteriorating infrastructure and sanitation challenges as his main motivation.
Kuria’s announcement follows remarks by President William Ruto during the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Africa Inland Church (AIC) Ziwani, where the President committed national government support for clean-ups, the elimination of mud roads, and expanded street lighting across Nairobi.
In a message addressed to President Ruto on social media, Kuria said: “Dear President William Ruto. Today you spoke to my heart… I have heard your cry. That is why I will offer myself to be the Governor of the great County of Nairobi in 2027. I will fix Nairobi.”
Kuria pointed to prior conversations with Prime Minister Raila Odinga about Nairobi’s persistent challenges, suggesting that alliances across political lines will be needed to govern the city effectively.
President Ruto, during his address, reiterated a long-term vision: a 30-year plan aimed at transforming Kenya into a “first-world nation” by 2055, with Nairobi as a flagship example of progress.
Kuria joins a growing list of contenders eyeing City Hall, including MP Babu Owino and analyst Tony Gachoka, signaling an increasingly competitive race to unseat Governor Johnson Sakaja.
Observers say Kuria’s credibility will depend on whether he can present a clear, actionable agenda for tackling Nairobi’s garbage, drainage, roads, and public services and on whether he can navigate the political alliances necessary to govern Kenya’s capital.
By Michelle Ndaga
