Radio host Alex Mwakideu has voiced strong support for Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, as he eyes the Nairobi senatorial seat.
During a broadcast on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Mwakideu said that Jalang’o’s rise is straightforward and not a contest against any specific rival.
“Tano Seneta wa Nairobi, miaka tano Gavana wa Nairobi, halafu straight away katika kiti cha ikulu, Phelix Odiwuor, amesema miaka yake ni ngapi? Tano tano. Inakua tamu tena sana,” Mwakideu said, highlighting the appeal of Jalang’o’s political trajectory.
His cohost responded, noting possibilities for the race, “Kinawezekana by the way, ni kitu ambayo kinawezekana.”
Mwakideu reacted with emphasis, “Eehh,” before clarifying, “Ah ah, hapambani na mtu, anachukua kiti cha useneta Nairobi, hapambani na mtu.”
His comments suggest confidence in Jalang’o’s ability to secure the seat without a direct battle with other major contenders.
Jalang’o secures local backing
This comes after Jalang’o announced that his Lang’ata constituents have given him their blessing as he targets the Nairobi Senate seat. Speaking on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, during a public gathering, Jalang’o said, “Mimi nishaamua kupanda juu, watu wangu wa Langata wamenibariki, mimi naweza kuwa Senator wa Nairobi. Ni mbaya!”
His statement reflected the strong support he has received from his home area, which he views as crucial for his campaign.
Jalang’o explained that his decision is personal and comes after years of engaging with Nairobi residents. He said he has observed the political landscape and feels prepared to take on a larger role.
“Nawania kiti cha senator…Mimi huamua na naendea. Mimi nakuambia naweza kuwa gavana wa Nairobi, na naweza kuwa seneta wa Nairobi, na naweza kuwa mbunge wa Lang’ata, na naweza kuwa mbunge wa pahali popote hapa Nairobi. Maana nimetembea, nimesikia, nimewaongelesha… why not? Nitaendea!” he earlier said on a local radio station.
The MP expressed that his decision to run for the Senate is entirely his own and not influenced by anyone, including President William Ruto.
Mwakideu’s vocal endorsement aligns with the narrative thatJalang’o’s move into the Senate race is widely supported. He highlighted that the path for Jalang’o is not about competing against a rival but about stepping into a new leadership role for Nairobi.
