As the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) gears up for its county chairmanship primaries set for April 2025, Makadara MP George Aladwa is optimistic about retaining his position as the Nairobi County chair. Aladwa, a long-serving leader within ODM, is banking on his extensive experience and recent grassroots victories to bolster his re-election bid.
Aladwa faces stiff competition from Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, who has also declared interest in the Nairobi Governor seat in the 2027 General Elections. Both leaders, seasoned in Nairobi politics, are leveraging their extensive grassroots knowledge and political clout to secure key positions within ODM, shaping the party’s strategy for future elections.
Aladwa’s Confidence in Team Victory
George Aladwa’s tenure as ODM Nairobi chair has been marked by the party’s growing dominance in the city, with ODM securing a significant number of parliamentary and county assembly seats. He attributes his confidence to the results of the recently concluded grassroots elections in Nairobi, where many delegates allied to his camp secured victories.
“We have concluded our grassroots elections in Nairobi. I am happy with the results; they speak louder. Team Aladwa is leading, and come next year, we are more than ready,” Aladwa stated.
Aladwa’s leadership credentials are deeply rooted in his political journey, which includes serving as Nairobi’s mayor from 2011 to 2013 and completing two terms as Makadara MP. These roles have fortified his reputation as a steadfast ODM loyalist capable of navigating Nairobi’s dynamic political landscape.
Wanyonyi’s New Vision
On the other side of the race, Tim Wanyonyi is injecting fresh energy into the contest. The Westlands MP, now serving his third term in Parliament, has declared his unwavering loyalty to ODM while positioning himself as a candidate with a vision for the future.
Wanyonyi’s strategic decision to keep a measured distance from the current government underscores his commitment to ODM’s values. His promise to not step aside for any candidate in his quest for the Nairobi Governor seat in 2027 reflects his determination to elevate his political profile.
The MP’s grassroots influence, particularly in Westlands, was evident in the recent ODM grassroots elections, where his team reported significant victories in several polling stations. These successes highlight the growing momentum behind his campaign to challenge Aladwa’s decade-long hold on the Nairobi ODM chairmanship.
A Peaceful Election Process
The grassroots elections across Nairobi were notably peaceful, with delegates praising the orderly process. In Dandora, elections were conducted through consensus, a method ODM often uses to streamline decision-making and avoid protracted disputes.
“We have held our elections peacefully. We are also observing how other wards are conducting their grassroots primaries, and we are happy it is peaceful,” said a delegate from Dandora.
Mama Shiro, a candidate vying for a leadership position in Lang’ata, lauded the peaceful nature of the elections, emphasizing that such orderliness is vital for party unity ahead of critical elections.
The Stakes for ODM
The Nairobi County chairmanship race goes beyond individual ambitions. It holds significant implications for ODM’s strategy as the party eyes dominance in the 2027 General Elections. Under Aladwa’s leadership, ODM has cemented its influence in Nairobi, making the capital city a stronghold for the party.
However, Wanyonyi’s challenge introduces a new dynamic. Both leaders bring a wealth of experience, having served as councilors in the defunct Nairobi City Council before ascending to Parliament. Their deep understanding of Nairobi’s political landscape makes this contest a pivotal moment for ODM’s future in the city.
As the primaries approach, ODM’s delegates face a choice between continuity and renewal. Aladwa’s proven leadership offers stability, while Wanyonyi’s vision promises change and rejuvenation. Ultimately, the outcome of this contest will not only shape ODM’s leadership in Nairobi but also signal the party’s readiness to tackle the 2027 elections with a united front.
