The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga has formally declared that she will vie for the Nairobi Senate seat, saying she will do so with young people by her side as she maps out her political future.
She made the announcement on Thursday during the first anniversary memorial of her father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County. She drew attention to the presence of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna at the event, which she said pushed her to address the questions about her own ambitions.
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“I have seen that there is a visitor here from Nairobi; his name is Sifuna,” Winnie said. “Let it not be a rumour that as Edwin Sifuna searches for higher offices, I see there is a space. That is why I will stand for the senator of Nairobi.”
Her declaration puts the Nairobi Senate seat in the spotlight as leaders and aspirants begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Winnie, who represents Kenya at the EALA, said she would not go it alone and would place the youth at the centre of her plans. “Lakini siendi pekee yangu, I am going with young people,” she said.
Her remarks point to a campaign built around youth participation as she considers moving from regional representation into elective politics in Nairobi. “Are you ready to walk with me?” she asked, to cheers from the crowd.
Sifuna, the sitting Nairobi senator, has been the subject of political debate over his next move, and Winnie referred to his pursuit of higher office as she announced her bid. He has declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2027.
The memorial drew family members, political allies and supporters to remember the former Prime Minister a year after his death.
