Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, the comedian and former radio presenter better known as Jalang'o, has laughed off speculation that he will return to the studio if his bid for the Nairobi Senate seat fails next year.

The question has been doing the rounds online since he confirmed he will not defend his Lang'ata seat in 2027. Speaking on the move as he drove to inspect Jacaranda Grounds ahead of a weekend ODM rally, he wondered why some people seemed keen to see him lose. "What did I do wrong to those who want me to fail and go back to radio?" he asked, according to The Star.

'I have never lost Alex's number'

Jalang'o was one of the best-known voices on Kenyan breakfast radio, including his partnership with Alex Mwakideu. He made light of the suggestion that he was keeping his former co-host on speed dial as a fallback. "Number one, I have never lost Alex's number," he said.

He admitted that radio pays well, but said his political path is in God's hands. "I am where I am because of God. If the Almighty wants me to go back to radio, so be it," he said. "But I do not see myself going back to radio."

K24 Digital and Pulse Kenya, which also reported the remarks, noted that he has given different answers on the subject over the years. Before the 2022 election he said he would be back in the studio the day after losing. In 2025 he joked that if he picked up a microphone again, "people would lose jobs", and revealed that his contract had a clause allowing him to return if he lost.

From entertainer to politician

Jalang'o built his name in comedy, acting, radio, event hosting and business before winning the Lang'ata seat on an ODM ticket in 2022. His move to the Senate race pits him against a crowded field for the seat now held by Edwin Sifuna. The field includes EALA MP Winnie Odinga, who declared on October 15, and nominated Senator Crystal Asige, who announced her interest on October 18.

His exit from Lang'ata has also opened up that seat. KMPDU Secretary-General Dr Davji Atellah and South C MCA Abass Khalif have said they will seek the ODM ticket.

Fans weigh in

Online, many of his former listeners say they would welcome him back on air. Others say his remarks show how much showbiz careers now feed into Kenyan politics, with comedians, musicians and influencers increasingly turning to elective seats.

Photos: K24 Digital; The Star. Thumbnail design: HAMASTA MEDIA.