Former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera has abandoned his bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial position and announced plans to contest the Makadara parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Nyakera, who is associated with the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), said the decision followed consultations with his political mentors as well as calls from residents of Makadara who wanted him to represent them in Parliament.
He made the announcement after visiting former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at his Wamunyoro home. Nyakera said Gachagua had offered him political guidance and supported his decision to pursue the Makadara seat.
The former PS said he had listened to residents who wanted him to return to the constituency and serve as their Member of Parliament.
The decision marks a major change in Nyakera's political plans. Earlier in 2026, he had been actively positioning himself as a candidate for Nairobi governor and had outlined proposals for improving the city's business environment.
Nyakera has previously held senior government positions, including serving as Principal Secretary in the State Department of Transport and the State Department of Planning and Statistics at the National Treasury.
He has also served as chairperson of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) and the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
His entry into the Makadara race is expected to increase competition for the parliamentary seat as political parties and aspirants prepare for the 2027 elections.
Nyakera will now shift his attention from the Nairobi-wide gubernatorial contest to securing the DCP ticket and building support among Makadara residents.
His move comes as political realignments continue across Nairobi, with several leaders already positioning themselves for different elective seats ahead of the next General Election.