Felix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has declared his intention to run for the Nairobi Senate seat in the 2027 General Election, setting up a potential showdown with incumbent Senator Edwin Sifuna and igniting fresh debate within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Speaking during an interview on Radio 47, the Lang’ata MP said his decision was driven by frequent interactions with Nairobi residents who, he argued, feel unrepresented on key issues affecting the capital. Jalang’o questioned whether the Senate’s core mandate of oversight has been effectively exercised for the benefit of city residents.
“The role of the senator is oversight. Nairobi has many challenges, but when was the last time you heard strong oversight on issues affecting the people of this city?” Jalang’o posed, in remarks widely interpreted as a direct jab at Sifuna’s record.
While acknowledging Sifuna’s strengths in political mobilisation and party leadership, Jalang’o argued that activism must translate into tangible accountability for county governance. He said Nairobians are grappling with persistent problems such as poor roads, sanitation, water shortages, insecurity and strained health services, issues he believes demand a more visible and assertive Senate voice.
Jalang’o dismissed claims that his Senate bid is part of a broader political project linked to President William Ruto, insisting the move is a personal decision shaped by his assessment of Nairobi’s needs. He confirmed he intends to seek the ODM ticket, expressing confidence that the party will support his candidature whether it runs independently or within a coalition in 2027.
Responding to critics who argue he should first complete more than one term as MP, Jalang’o said the Constitution places no limits on when an elected leader can seek another office. He maintained that his experience representing Lang’ata has prepared him for the broader oversight responsibilities of the Senate.
The declaration adds to growing political tensions within ODM, where internal contests and differing loyalties have increasingly played out in public. With more than a year to the next General Election, Jalang’o’s entry into the race is expected to intensify scrutiny of Sifuna’s performance and sharpen debate over Nairobi’s leadership and oversight at the national level.
