Pauline Njoroge Quits Nairobi Governor Race, Throws Weight Behind Babu Owino

Political strategist Pauline Njoroge has withdrawn from the Nairobi governor race in favour of Babu Owino, saying the lawmaker has the leadership qualities needed to take charge of Kenya’s capital.

Njoroge, who had declared her interest in becoming Nairobi governor months ago, announced the decision during an interview with Herman Manyora on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

She said her ambitions had always been focused on City Hall but chose to step aside and support her longtime political ally.

“My interests were in the city hall, but I have stepped down for my friend Babu Owino. If he appoints me his deputy, I will accept,” Pauline Njoroge announced.

The Jubilee Party organising secretary praised the Embakasi East MP, describing him as a leader capable of delivering for Nairobi residents.

Pauline Njoroge considers next political move after governor race exit

Despite abandoning her Nairobi governor ambitions, Njoroge said she has not made a final decision on her next political move.

She revealed that she could consider contesting for the Nairobi Senate seat but ruled out pursuing the woman representative position, saying she was already supporting another candidate for that position.

Njoroge said she would make a formal announcement after the Linda Mwananchi movement completes consultations on how elective positions will be distributed among its members ahead of the 2027 elections.

Babu Owino and Pauline Njoroge had earlier discussed Nairobi ambitions

The decision comes days after Njoroge spoke about how she and Babu Owino planned to handle their similar ambitions for Nairobi leadership.

She said the two leaders would eventually discuss who would step aside as elections approach.

“Babu is my really good friend, and he is a great leader, and he has done so many development projects in Embakasi, and he has even been ranked as number one in terms of the work he has been able to do as an MP,” Pauline said.

Njoroge said the two were currently focused on working together and serving Kenyans before deciding their individual political paths.

“Babu is the one who is always defending Kenyans, so he is a leader I admire. And let me say that we are on the same side, so for now let us work for the people, and so when the time for elections comes, we will discuss who will leave the seat for each other,” Pauline said.

Political alliance takes shape ahead of Nairobi governor race

Njoroge’s withdrawal marks a significant shift in Nairobi’s political contest, with Babu Owino gaining support from a prominent Jubilee Party figure.

The move could influence how political alliances form ahead of the 2027 General Election, especially as various groups begin negotiations over preferred candidates and elective positions.

The Linda Mwananchi movement’s consultations are expected to play a role in determining the final political arrangements among its members.

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