East African Legislative Assembly member Winnie Odinga has announced her intention to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat in 2027, setting the stage for a potential contest involving several political figures as uncertainty surrounds incumbent Edwin Sifuna’s ambitions.
Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has declared her intention to run for Nairobi Senator in the 2027 General Election, marking a new chapter in her political career.
She made the announcement on Thursday, 15 October, at Migwena Cultural Grounds during a commemoration marking one year since her father’s death.
“Let it not be a rumour that as Edwin Sifuna searches for higher offices, I see there is some space in Nairobi and that is why I have decided I will vie for Senator of Nairobi County,” Winnie said.
However, she did not disclose which political party or vehicle she would use to pursue the seat.
Her announcement comes as political attention increasingly turns to Nairobi ahead of the 2027 elections, with several aspirants expressing interest in the senatorial contest.
Winnie addresses Sifuna’s political ambitions
In her remarks, Winnie referred to incumbent Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s reported interest in higher office, making it clear that her decision to contest the Senate seat should not be interpreted as an attempt to ride on his political ambitions.
Nairobi has traditionally been a strong electoral base for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), although the political alignments ahead of the next General Election remain uncertain.
Winnie also called on young people from across the country to participate actively in politics and consider seeking elective positions.
Her announcement is likely to draw attention to the question of party nominations and the candidates who will eventually enter the Nairobi Senate race.
Jalang’o and other aspirants in the race
Winnie joins a growing list of potential contenders for the seat.
Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has also declared his intention to challenge Sifuna for the Nairobi Senate position, with his bid linked to the ODM ticket.
Other figures mentioned as potential contenders include city lawyer Danstan Omari, musician Domani Munga of Wakadinali, United Opposition youth leader Ken Babu, musician KRG The Don, lawyer Cecil Miller, former Makadara MP Reuben Ndolo and nominated Senator Crystal Asige.
The final line-up will depend on the candidates who formally enter the race and the outcome of party nomination processes.
Sifuna’s political plans will also be closely watched as the election approaches.
Announcement follows traditional ceremony in Bondo
Winnie’s declaration comes about a week after a section of the Luo Council of Elders reportedly recognised her as her late father’s heir during a ceremony at the Odinga family’s Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County.
The traditional recognition has added another dimension to discussions about the Odinga family’s future political role.
Her brother, Raila Odinga Jr, has separately taken on the traditional role of head of the Odinga household following a family ceremony. Household leadership, however, is distinct from political succession and does not automatically determine who will inherit a political position or following.
Raila Jr has also been pursuing political ambitions in Nairobi, with the Kibra parliamentary seat emerging as his current focus after he previously expressed interest in Embakasi South.
His mother, Ida Odinga, has backed his Kibra ambitions, while he has consulted senior family figures, including Dr Oburu Oginga, as he seeks to build on his late father’s political base under ODM.
Nairobi Senate race takes shape
Winnie’s declaration adds another prominent name to the emerging contest for Nairobi’s senatorial seat.
With several potential aspirants positioning themselves ahead of 2027, questions over party tickets, political alliances and Sifuna’s next move are expected to feature prominently in the campaign.
For now, Winnie has confirmed her intention to contest but has yet to announce the political vehicle through which she will seek election.
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