Inside the Secret Deal: How Ruto and Raila United to Save Sakaja from Impeachment

Raila Odinga with Governor Sakaja meeting MCAs.: Photo: Alai/X

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has received a temporary relief from impeachment following unusual interventions by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, who intervened to ease escalating tensions at City Hall.

On Tuesday, ODM-affiliated MCAs first held a consultative meeting with Raila at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, while UDA legislators met with President Ruto at State House shortly afterward.

Both leaders urged caution, advising ward representatives to express their grievances without inciting political unrest in the capital.

After the meeting with Raila, ODM Nairobi Chair George Aladwa stated that the MCAs decided to postpone the impeachment motion for a month, allowing Sakaja time to resolve issues related to delayed bursaries, halted Ward Development Funds, and allegations of unresponsiveness.

“From the consultative meeting with the ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga, we agreed to consult widely and listen to each other more,” MCA Robert Alai said shortly after the session.

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai with other MCAs addressing media.

At State House, President Ruto used his own political experiences to warn MCAs against destabilizing Nairobi with ongoing threats of removal.

“I have been the most accused person, but I never allowed that to derail my work. I urge you to put aside differences and drop this motion,” he told them.

Raila emphasized the message, urging leaders to transcend partisan maneuvering.

“Nairobi must not be held hostage by political brinkmanship. Leaders must rise above partisan agendas to deliver for the people,” he said.

The truce highlights the delicate equilibrium in Nairobi's political landscape—where a governor elected on a UDA ticket depends significantly on ODM's presence in the County Assembly for stability.

It also emphasizes how the ruling coalition's collaboration with ODM within their broad-based government framework is increasingly influencing outcomes across various institutions.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, September 1, 2025, Alai had said the motion targets mismanagement of county services, including the privatisation of core public health functions and failures in infrastructure maintenance.

“I think what has been happening in Nairobi is that we have ignored the problem, and now the fish has rotten from the head. We have tried to highlight this. He has looked for excuses why he’s not doing it. Nairobi needs action, not excuses,” Alai said.

He cited a collapse in basic services such as garbage collection and poor management of the city’s infrastructure.

The upcoming month will be crucial. Should Sakaja succeed in addressing his critics and fulfilling his promises, he may solidify his position. However, if he stumbles, the calls for his removal may resurface more forcefully — with even fewer opportunities for redemption.