Lang’ata MP Jalang’o Declares Bid for Nairobi Senatorial Seat in 2027
Politics Updated: 10 February 2026 19:51 EAT
Lang'ata Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor popularly known as Jalang'o
Lang’ata Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o or Jalas, has officially declared his intention to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, marking a major shift in his political career from constituency to countywide leadership.
The ODM legislator made the announcement during a media interview, stating that he has made a personal decision to seek the Senate seat and will not be defending his Lang’ata parliamentary position. He said his exposure to issues affecting Nairobi residents across different social and economic backgrounds has inspired him to aim for a broader mandate.
Jalang’o, who was elected Lang’ata MP in 2022 on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket, maintained that his ambition is well within his democratic right and dismissed claims that he is being pushed by external political forces. He stressed that the decision is driven by confidence in his leadership ability and connection with the people of Nairobi.
The MP confirmed that he remains loyal to ODM and intends to seek the party’s ticket for the senatorial race. He added that he will abide by the party’s internal processes and align himself with whichever coalition ODM settles on ahead of the 2027 polls.
His declaration sets the stage for a potentially fierce contest within ODM, as the seat is currently held by Edwin Sifuna, who also serves as the party’s Secretary General. While Sifuna has not formally declared his intentions, political observers expect him to defend the seat, setting up a high-profile showdown.
Jalang’o has in recent months been visible in several political consultations and public engagements across Nairobi, a move analysts interpret as early groundwork for a citywide campaign. He has framed his bid around the need for stronger representation of Nairobi’s interests in the Senate.
The announcement also opens up the Lang’ata parliamentary seat, which Jalang’o will be vacating in 2027. Several local leaders and aspirants are already being mentioned as potential contenders, signaling an impending realignment of local politics in the constituency.
With more than a year to the elections, Jalang’o’s entry into the senatorial race adds momentum to early campaigning in Nairobi and is expected to intensify political activity within ODM and across the capital as the 2027 contest begins to take shape.
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FELIX MAKONA
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