Robert Alai has formally entered the race for the Dagoretti North parliamentary seat, framing his candidature as a job application submitted directly to the people.
“I am applying for one of the most demanding jobs in Kenya, the position of Member of Parliament for Dagoretti North Constituency in the 2027 elections,” Alai said.
Alai argues that the people of Dagoretti North have had the opportunity to assess his leadership during his four-year tenure as MCA for Kileleshwa Ward and should now decide whether that performance deserves a higher office.
“I believe I am qualified because you have already supervised my work. For the past four years, I have served as the Member of County Assembly for Kileleshwa Ward, where you have seen my work ethic, my accessibility and my willingness to stand where many leaders remain silent.”
The former digital activist, who built his public profile through years of outspoken commentary on governance and accountability before successfully contesting the Kileleshwa MCA seat in 2022, has increasingly sought to define himself through elective leadership rather than online activism.
Perhaps the most memorable line in his announcement was his description of the race as a request for promotion.
“Today, I am asking for a promotion, not for prestige, but because I believe I can solve bigger problems on a bigger platform.”
The Dagoretti North race will see Alai face off with incumbent Beatrice Elachi for the ODM ticket.
