Jalang’o offers to find Winnie Odinga a husband, gets blasted

Lang’ata Member of Parliament Felix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has faced backlash after making controversial remarks about Winnie Odinga during a political rally, drawing criticism over his decision to bring her personal life into the emerging Nairobi senatorial contest.

The former radio presenter, who is eyeing the Nairobi Senate seat in the 2027 General Election, sparked debate after suggesting that he could find Winnie a husband as the two position themselves for a potential political showdown.

Addressing a crowd during a rally over the weekend, Jalang’o made it clear that he was not prepared to withdraw from the race following Winnie’s declaration of interest.

“I must find her a man. Should I find her a man or not?” he asked the crowd.

His remarks triggered criticism on social media, with some Kenyans questioning their relevance to the political contest and arguing that Winnie’s marital status should not be used as a campaign talking point.

Jalang’o Vows to Defeat Winnie Odinga

Beyond the controversial comment, Jalang’o expressed confidence in his chances of winning the Nairobi senatorial seat, claiming that President William Ruto supported his political ambitions.

The MP vowed to defeat Winnie during the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party nominations and maintained that he would still beat her if she opted to contest on another party’s ticket.

“I will also show her dust in the new party, and I will become the senator for Nairobi,” he declared.

Winnie, the daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, announced her intention to contest the Nairobi Senate seat during the first anniversary commemoration of her father’s death on October 15.

Jalang’o had expressed interest in the seat before Winnie announced her bid, setting the stage for a potentially competitive race as political alignments ahead of the 2027 General Election take shape.

Carol Radull Criticises Jalang’o

Sports journalist Carol Radull was among those who criticised the Lang’ata MP, urging him to focus on issue-based campaigns and maintain respect for his potential opponent.

“Jalas, my friend. Why are you attacking someone who has not even mentioned you? Please let’s keep campaigns clean, progressive and respectful,” she wrote.

Other social media users also questioned why Jalang’o had brought Winnie’s marital status into a discussion about political leadership.

One user, @Imoreen, asked, “When did finding a husband become an achievement?”

Another user, @Phylinejean, criticised the remarks, arguing that Winnie deserved respect because of her family background.

Some commenters further suggested that such statements could influence how female voters view the MP as the contest gathers momentum.