Lang’ata Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor, better known as Jalang’o, has openly stated that he plans to enter the race for the Nairobi Senate seat in the 2027 General Election, setting up a potential showdown with ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
The first-term MP, who won the Lang’ata seat on an ODM ticket in 2022, revealed his ambitions on Tuesday while speaking during an interview on Radio 47. His declaration signals a significant realignment in Nairobi politics as the country gradually edges closer to the next polls.
Jalang’o’s comments come against the backdrop of growing political speculation following his recent public engagements alongside Lands Principal Secretary and former Lang’ata MP Nixon Korir, as well as South C Ward MCA Abass Khalif, who has since announced his bid for the Lang’ata parliamentary seat. These appearances had raised questions about whether Jalang’o was preparing to vacate his current post.
Addressing the speculation, the MP confirmed that his focus has now shifted to the Nairobi Senate race. He argued that his political experience and broad exposure across the country have equipped him with the insight needed to effectively represent the capital’s residents.
According to Jalang’o, there are no legal or political barriers preventing him from seeking the seat, insisting that he is ready for the challenge ahead. His entry into the contest is expected to further shake up Nairobi’s political scene, particularly at a time when Senator Sifuna is already navigating internal tensions within the ODM party.