NAIROBI — Nominated Senator Crystal Asige has formally declared her intention to contest the Nairobi Senate seat in the 2027 General Election, joining a crowded field that includes East African Legislative Assembly member Winnie Odinga and Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor (Jalang’o).
Asige made the announcement on Sunday, October 18, 2026, during a church service at Jesus Teaching Ministry Church in Donholm, Embakasi East. The event formed part of a Nairobi tour by leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi Movement. Speaking in Swahili, she declared: “Asige anasija kama Senator wa Nairobi 2027,” while appealing for voter support to continue her work.
The nominated senator, who represents persons with disabilities, women and youth in the Senate under ODM, cited her legislative record as the basis for seeking an elected mandate. She said she has developed seven bills aimed at protecting Kenyans, including measures supporting young entrepreneurs and special-needs schools, and highlighted the Persons with Disabilities Act. Asige has been recognised as a top-performing senator for consecutive years.
“If this round is about track record, I also have a track record. I have introduced seven bills to help Kenyans and protect Kenyans,” she told the gathering. “I am asking for an opportunity to continue this work, to serve and protect Kenyans. Imagine how much more I will do for you here in Embakasi as your Nairobi senator.”
Her entry intensifies the contest for the seat currently held by Edwin Sifuna, who is widely expected to pursue higher office. Winnie Odinga declared her own bid on October 15 during the first anniversary of her father Raila Odinga’s death in Bondo, while Jalang’o has previously expressed interest. Other potential contenders have also been linked to the race.
Asige, a 2024 TIME100 Next honoree and disability rights advocate who is visually impaired due to glaucoma, has built a profile around inclusion, accessibility and legislative reforms. Her decision to seek an elected position rather than remain a nominated senator marks a shift toward direct electoral politics in Nairobi ahead of the 2027 polls. The growing list of aspirants is expected to shape internal ODM and opposition discussions over candidate selection in the coming months.