The survey, conducted through face-to-face household interviews with 5,000 respondents across all 17 constituencies in Nairobi, revealed that 45% of voters would choose Gakuya if elections were held today. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino followed closely with 30%, while incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja came in third with 13% support.
Businesswoman Agnes Kagure secured 6%, former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera got 4%, and 2% of respondents said they were still undecided.
Pollsters attribute Gakuya’s growing popularity to his strong connection with the working-class population and his image as a “people’s leader.”
He has built a reputation for openly criticizing corruption and over-taxation while defending hawkers, boda boda riders, and small traders.
Gakuya’s frequent community visits, simple communication style, and active engagement on social and mainstream media have strengthened his appeal, especially among Gen Zs and informal sector workers.
Gakuya’s frequent community visits, simple communication style, and active engagement on social and mainstream media have strengthened his appeal, especially among Gen Zs and informal sector workers.
Many Nairobi residents describe him as a practical leader who listens and acts.
Babu Owino, who is expected to vie on the ODM ticket, remains popular among young voters. His education initiatives — including bursaries and mentorship programs — have earned him strong support in the city’s low-income areas.
Babu Owino, who is expected to vie on the ODM ticket, remains popular among young voters. His education initiatives — including bursaries and mentorship programs — have earned him strong support in the city’s low-income areas.
His outspoken nature and active presence on social media have also kept him visible among Nairobi’s youth.
Governor Johnson Sakaja’s ratings have reportedly dropped, with respondents citing issues such as poor service delivery, corruption, arrogance, and the eviction of hawkers.
Governor Johnson Sakaja’s ratings have reportedly dropped, with respondents citing issues such as poor service delivery, corruption, arrogance, and the eviction of hawkers.
Many voters said the governor had “lost touch” with ordinary residents who once believed in his leadership.
Agnes Kagure was praised for supporting youth and women empowerment programs and providing food to families in informal settlements. Nyakera also received recognition for promoting education and community development.
The poll concluded that while Gakuya currently leads, about 4,000 respondents remain open to supporting a new candidate should one enter the race before 2027.
Agnes Kagure was praised for supporting youth and women empowerment programs and providing food to families in informal settlements. Nyakera also received recognition for promoting education and community development.
The poll concluded that while Gakuya currently leads, about 4,000 respondents remain open to supporting a new candidate should one enter the race before 2027.
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