July InTouch Polls: Jane Muringi Leads Embakasi North Race as ODM, DCP Battle Shapes 2027 Contest
Embakasi North is emerging as among Nairobi's most closely watched parliamentary battlegrounds, with the latest July InTouch Research Opinion Poll placing Hon. Jane Muringi Wangui at the top of a crowded field of aspirants ahead of the next General Election.
The seat is currently held by Hon. James Gakuya, who is widely expected to focus on his bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat. His decision not to defend the constituency has opened the race, attracting a growing list of aspirants seeking to succeed him.
According to the July poll, Jane Muringi has established herself as the early frontrunner. Political analysts attribute her strong showing to her growing grassroots network, her visibility as the Chief Officer for Markets and Trade in the Nairobi City County Government, and her ability to attract support beyond traditional party lines.
Although she is widely associated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and enjoys overwhelming backing from ODM supporters in the constituency, the survey indicates that she also commands significant support from voters outside the party. Her cross-party appeal has made her one of the most formidable contenders in the race.
A close ally of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, Jane Muringi's next political move is being closely watched. Political observers are keen to see whether she will remain on the ODM ticket or consider other political formations ahead of party nominations.
The poll also highlights the growing influence of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in Embakasi North. Together with ODM, DCP currently enjoys considerable grassroots support, setting the stage for what is expected to be an intense battle for political dominance in the constituency.
Among the other notable aspirants are Harrison Mwangi Wangoro, who previously contested on the Jubilee Party ticket before joining UDA and receiving backing from influential Nairobi politicians; Osewe Alphonse; Samuel Ngang'a; Julius Were, the brother of the late MP Mugabe Were; Simon Mukuni, who is expected to seek the UDA ticket; and Timothy "The Game" Agalo.
Despite the crowded field, political analysts believe the dynamics could change dramatically should James Gakuya decide to defend his parliamentary seat instead of pursuing the governorship.
The July InTouch Research poll suggests that such a scenario would transform the contest into a direct showdown between James Gakuya and Jane Muringi. Both leaders possess strong grassroots political machinery, loyal support bases, and a demonstrated ability to attract voters across party affiliations—an increasingly defining characteristic of Embakasi North politics.
With party realignments continuing and new aspirants expected to enter the race, the contest remains fluid. However, the latest July InTouch Research Opinion Poll indicates that Jane Muringi has emerged as the candidate to beat as political parties, particularly ODM and DCP, position themselves for what promises to be one of Nairobi's most competitive parliamentary races.