Nairobi, Kenya – Lang’ata Member of Parliament Felix Oduor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has announced plans to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, citing confidence in his record and what he describes as strong performance during his first term in office.
Speaking during an interview with Radio 47, the first-time MP said he believes he has the capacity to vie for any elective position, including the gubernatorial seat, but has opted to pursue the Senate because of its oversight mandate.
Oversight and Accountability
Jalang’o argued that his experience representing Lang’ata equips him to provide effective oversight of county resources across Nairobi:
“The work of an MP is oversight and management of public resources. I told myself that if we have delivered good results in Lang’ata, we can transform Nairobi as a whole by properly supervising county funds.”
He listed road infrastructure, sanitation, water supply, security, and healthcare as priority concerns requiring sustained attention.
Criticism of Current Leadership
The legislator was critical of incumbent Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, acknowledging his strengths in political mobilisation but faulting him on oversight.
“I respect our Secretary General Sifuna. In politics, he has performed well, but on oversight, he has let us down,” Jalang’o said, adding that party loyalty should not override advocacy for residents’ interests.
Political Trajectory
Addressing questions over his decision to seek a higher office after serving only one term as MP, Jalang’o dismissed suggestions that he should wait longer, noting there is no legal requirement prescribing how long an individual must serve before vying for another position. He cited the example of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko to support his position.
ODM Ticket and Campaign Strategy
Jalang’o confirmed he intends to seek the seat on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket and expressed confidence in securing the party’s nomination, whether ODM contests independently or as part of a coalition. He emphasized that party nominations would be the appropriate avenue to determine the flag bearer.
He also dismissed claims that his bid is backed by President William Ruto or tied to any external political project in Nairobi, stressing that the decision to run was entirely his own.
While reaffirming his loyalty to ODM, Jalang’o said he aligns with what he described as the party’s legitimate leadership and would focus his campaign on direct voter engagement rather than political patronage.
Conclusion
Jalang’o’s announcement sets the stage for a competitive Nairobi Senate race in 2027. His emphasis on oversight, service delivery, and grassroots engagement positions him as a candidate seeking to redefine the role of the Senate in addressing Nairobi’s pressing challenges.
