Alai Spots ODM Opening in Kamukunji as Yusuf Hassan Joins Gachagua’s DCP

Orange Democratic Movement could be staring at a major political opportunity in Kamukunji following the decision by longtime MP Yusuf Hassan Abdi to leave the Jubilee Party and join the Democracy for Citizens Party associated with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai has urged ODM to move quickly and position itself for the 2027 General Election, arguing that the political changes in the constituency have created an opening for the party to make a serious bid for the parliamentary seat.

In a statement shared on his official X account on Wednesday, August 26, Alai maintained that ODM could win Kamukunji if its leadership increases grassroots engagement and establishes a stronger relationship with residents.

“ODM can win Kamukunji now,” Alai said, calling on the party leadership to engage residents more extensively.

His remarks come just a day after Yusuf Hassan officially joined DCP and declared his intention to seek another term as Kamukunji MP under the new political vehicle.

Hassan has represented the constituency for four consecutive terms, having first been elected in a 2011 by-election.

The veteran legislator subsequently retained the seat in 2013 on a TNA ticket before winning again in 2017 and 2022 on the Jubilee Party ticket.

His latest political shift therefore represents a significant change in the constituency’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

Hassan has also openly aligned himself with Gachagua’s 2027 presidential ambitions, saying that he and his supporters had decided to back the former Deputy President.

The move is likely to intensify competition in Kamukunji, with rival political parties expected to assess their chances of challenging Hassan.

For ODM, Alai believes the change could provide the party with an opportunity to expand its influence in Nairobi.

However, simply fielding a candidate may not be enough.

The MCA has emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with voters and stronger grassroots structures.

Kamukunji, which includes areas such as Eastleigh, Pumwani and California, is a politically significant and diverse constituency.

Winning the seat would therefore give any party a valuable foothold in Nairobi.

As political alliances continue taking shape ahead of 2027, Hassan’s defection could turn Kamukunji into one of Nairobi’s closely watched parliamentary contests, with ODM now being challenged to prove whether it can capitalize on the opening identified by Alai.