Winnie Odinga has declared her intention to contest the Nairobi Senate seat.
The EALA MP announced her Senate ambitions at her father’s memorial, as Edwin Sifuna weighs a possible presidential bid in 2027.
East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga has announced her intention to enter the Nairobi Senate race. Her declaration comes as incumbent Senator Edwin Sifuna positions himself for a possible presidential bid in 2027.
Winnie outlined her plans during the first anniversary memorial of her father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Addressing Sifuna directly, she linked her decision to the political opening she anticipates if he pursues higher office.
However, Sifuna’s presidential ambitions remain a possibility, rather than a confirmed departure from the Senate contest. Winnie’s announcement nevertheless gives her political plans a specific electoral target ahead of the next General Election.
Nairobi Senate race could draw ODM contest
Winnie could face competition from Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o. He has also emerged as a possible ODM contender for the Nairobi Senate seat.
A contest between the two would depend on both pursuing the party’s ticket. For now, Winnie has publicly declared her interest, while Jalang’o remains a potential challenger.
Her announcement also puts Nairobi’s Senate seat within the wider discussion about ODM leaders’ ambitions for 2027. Sifuna’s possible move towards a presidential campaign forms part of that emerging political picture.
Winnie urges young people to seek office
Beyond her own candidacy, Winnie called for more young people to participate in elective politics. She encouraged them to prepare for contests for governor, senator and Member of Parliament.
She also presented her Senate ambition as part of a broader push for youth leadership. Rather than seeking office alone, she said she wanted young aspirants to pursue positions alongside her.
Elders’ gesture adds to succession debate
The declaration follows a symbolic endorsement by a section of Luo elders at Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County. The ceremony took place on October 3, 2026.
Rose Otumba, the women’s representative of the Siaya Luo Council of Elders, led the endorsement. She placed a traditional hat on Winnie’s head and urged her to carry forward her father’s political role.
That gesture added to calls for Winnie to take a larger role in ODM following Raila’s death. However, the elders’ symbolic endorsement was not a party nomination for the Senate seat.
Meanwhile, questions continue over who will carry forward Raila’s political legacy. Winnie’s declaration now places her own electoral ambitions within that wider debate ahead of 2027.
