The declaration, made during a public rally, has ignited fresh political tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) amid ongoing internal divisions.
"I am going to battle my brother Sifuna head-to-head. There will be no running. I will take Sifuna back to Kanduyi," Jalang'o stated, referencing Sifuna's roots in Bungoma's Kanduyi area.
The comedian-turned-politician criticized Sifuna's oversight record, arguing that party loyalty should not overshadow Nairobi residents' interests.
Jalang'o's move comes days after Sifuna's ouster as ODM Secretary General, with the party dismissing claims of external influence from President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The MP aligns with ODM factions favoring a UDA coalition, while Sifuna leads opposition to it.
The announcement sparked online buzz, with an X post by Kenyan politician Cornelius Ronoh captioning a graphic of Jalang'o's quote as "Safari ya Kanduyi imeanza! Hii ya Sifuna ni Express!" – translating to "The journey to Kanduyi has begun! Sifuna's is express!"
Replies were mixed: some labeled Jalang'o a Ruto mole, while others mocked his chances, saying Sifuna's brand is unbeatable.
Political analysts see this as a high-stakes gamble for Jalang'o, who risks his Lang'ata seat amid voter backlash.
Supporters like activist Gaucho predict victory, insisting votes aren't noise. As ODM navigates post-Raila Odinga era, this rivalry could reshape Nairobi's political landscape.
0 Comments