Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has announced her intention to contest the 2027 gubernatorial election, challenging current Governor Johnson Sakaja. The announcement comes amid ongoing political tensions in Nairobi’s local governance. Passaris, a member of the National Assembly, has not yet formally registered her candidacy but has expressed her intent through public statements.
The Nairobi governor’s office has not commented on the threat, though sources indicate that the administration is aware of the potential challenge. Passaris, known for her advocacy on women’s rights and local development, has built a strong political base in the city. Her decision to run follows a period of increased political activity in Nairobi, with several local leaders vying for influence ahead of the next election cycle.
The 2027 gubernatorial election will be the first under Kenya’s new electoral framework, which aims to streamline local governance. The current administration, led by Sakaja, has faced criticism over land policy reforms, including recent changes to land rates exemption rules. These changes require property owners to reapply for exemptions under the National Rating Act 2024, affecting private hospitals and schools.
The political landscape in Nairobi remains competitive, with multiple stakeholders vying for control over key urban policies. Passaris’s potential candidacy adds to the growing list of contenders, signaling a shift in the city’s political dynamics. The upcoming election is expected to be a significant test for local leaders as they navigate the challenges of governance in a rapidly evolving urban environment.
