Kenyan Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has responded to claims that his political career is coming to an end. He dismissed speculation that he might be forced to return to radio if he fails to win the Nairobi Senate seat in the 2027 General Election. Jalang’o expressed confidence in his Senate bid, citing divine intervention as the guiding force behind his political journey.
Jalang’o made these remarks as he inspected the Jacaranda Grounds venue for an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) rally scheduled for the weekend. He questioned why some people wanted him to fail and return to the media industry. Jalang’o built his public profile through comedy, acting, and radio before venturing into politics. He has never lost veteran radio presenter Alex Mwakideu’s number, but laughed off suggestions that he would need Mwakideu’s help to return to broadcasting.
Jalang’o acknowledged that broadcasting can be a lucrative profession for talented presenters, but he does not see himself returning to radio. He emphasized that his current path is guided by God and that he would accept whatever path the Almighty chooses for him. Jalang’o confirmed that he will not defend his Lang’ata parliamentary seat in 2027 and will instead contest the Nairobi Senate position, currently held by Edwin Sifuna.
This decision has opened up the Lang’ata race, with several aspirants seeking to succeed Jalang’o. Dr. Davji Atellah, secretary-general of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), has announced his bid for the Lang’ata seat on an ODM ticket. Abass Khalif, a South C ward representative in the Nairobi County Assembly, has also expressed interest in the seat on the party ticket.
The Nairobi Senate seat has attracted several contenders, including Winnie Odinga, the East African Legislative Assembly MP and daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. She announced her bid on October 15, 2026, during the first anniversary commemoration of her father in Bondo, Siaya County. Nominated Senator Crystal Asige also announced her intention to contest the seat on October 18, 2026.
Jalang’o’s confidence in his Senate bid comes amidst speculation about his political future. Some people have advised him to keep Mwakideu’s number in case he needs help finding another media job after a failed political bid. However, Jalang’o remains optimistic about his chances and has expressed gratitude for the support he has received so far.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, key players are positioning themselves for various seats. Jalang’o’s decision to contest the Nairobi Senate seat has set off a chain reaction, with several aspirants vying for the Lang’ata seat. The outcome of these contests will likely shape the political landscape in Kenya.
Key points
- Jalang’o dismisses claims of political downfall, expresses confidence in Senate bid.
- Several aspirants seek to succeed Jalang’o in the Lang’ata parliamentary seat.
- The Nairobi Senate seat attracts multiple contenders, including Winnie Odinga and Crystal Asige.
