Ruto Refers to Jalang’o as ‘Nairobi Senator’ Amid Race for Sifuna’s Seat

President William Ruto has appeared to signal support for Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, in the contest for Nairobi’s senatorial seat after introducing him to crowds as the “Nairobi senator” during a working tour of Nandi and Uasin Gishu counties.

The remark has attracted attention amid growing political interest in the seat ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Jalang’o was among the government-aligned leaders who accompanied the President during the tour.

While introducing the MP to the crowd, Ruto made no reference to his current Lang’ata constituency, instead telling the gathering: “I have Jalang’o, Nairobi senator.”

Although the President did not elaborate on the comment, its timing has fuelled speculation about the political contest for the seat.

Winnie Odinga’s Senate bid

Ruto made the remarks two days after East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga announced her intention to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat during a memorial event for her late father, Raila Odinga, in Bondo, Siaya County.

Winnie said she was seeking to succeed Senator Edwin Sifuna, whose name has been floated by the Linda Mwananchi faction as a possible presidential candidate in the 2027 elections.

Her declaration triggered debate over the contest, with some critics arguing that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could favour her because she is the daughter of the party’s founding leader. Others predicted that her entry into the race could derail Jalang’o’s senatorial ambitions.

However, ODM deputy leader Simba Arati said at the Bondo memorial that the party would conduct fair nominations for all aspirants.

Jalang’o remains firm on his ambitions

Jalang’o, who was elected Lang’ata MP on an ODM ticket in 2022, has openly expressed his intention to succeed Sifuna in the Senate.

The first-term legislator has also outlined a longer-term ambition to contest the Nairobi governorship, potentially in 2032.

He has dismissed suggestions that the political pressure surrounding the senatorial race could force him to abandon his plans or return to radio presenting.

“I don’t think any of those can affect me in any way,” he said when responding to speculation about his political future.

Ruto’s remarks stopped short of a formal endorsement. The President did not mention Winnie’s candidacy or address how ODM would handle nominations for the seat.

Nevertheless, referring to Jalang’o as the “Nairobi senator” in public has added a new dimension to the emerging contest, potentially giving the MP greater visibility as the race gathers momentum.