Former Starehe MP and Jesus Is Alive Ministries founder Bishop Margaret Wanjiru has declared her intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election without seeking the backing of another political party.
Speaking during an interview with a local television station on Thursday, September 17, 2026, Wanjiru said she would pursue her bid through her own political vehicle, maintaining that Nairobi needs leadership with a direct mandate from voters.
The former legislator said she had no plans to seek a nomination ticket from another political outfit, arguing that elected leaders are better placed to defend the interests of residents because they are accountable directly to the electorate rather than political power brokers.
Wanjiru highlights political independence
Wanjiru argued that political independence is essential for a governor to effectively exercise the powers of the county office.
She questioned why some functions of governors are taken away and suggested that leaders without strong public backing can become vulnerable to pressure from influential political interests.
According to Wanjiru, a governor who enjoys a direct mandate from residents is better positioned to resist interference and defend the interests of Nairobi.
She said her campaign would therefore place political independence and direct accountability to voters at the centre of her gubernatorial agenda.
‘Woman governor must be elected’
Wanjiru also presented her candidacy as a push for greater female representation in Nairobi’s executive leadership.
She argued that women seeking to lead the county should secure their positions through elections rather than political appointments.
The former MP maintained that an elected woman governor would have a stronger mandate and greater freedom to make decisions in the interests of Nairobi residents.
Her position places women’s leadership alongside political independence as key themes likely to feature prominently in her campaign.
Wanjiru’s Nairobi political background
Wanjiru is a familiar figure in Nairobi politics, having served as the Starehe MP from 2007 to 2013.
She also served as Assistant Minister for Housing during the Grand Coalition Government.
Her decision to return to the Nairobi gubernatorial race adds another prominent name to an increasingly competitive contest for City Hall, with several politicians already positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Wanjiru’s decision to rely on her own political platform rather than seek a ticket from an established party could make political independence a defining feature of her campaign as she seeks to reconnect with Nairobi voters.
