Oundo Throws Open Challenge as He Welcomes Raila Odinga Jnr into Embakasi South Race
Huyo ni Jared and odm SG Catherine Omanyo
NAIROBI. Embakasi South parliamentary aspirant Dr. Jared Oundo has welcomed the anticipated entry of Raila Odinga Jnr into the 2027 race, declaring that leadership contests should be determined by ideas, competence and service to wananchi rather than political pedigree.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Oundo said he was ready to face any challenger, insisting that the constituency belongs to its residents and that every qualified Kenyan has a constitutional right to seek elective office.
“Embakasi South belongs to its people. Every Kenyan who is qualified and committed to serving the wananchi has a constitutional right to seek elective office. I welcome Raila Odinga Jnr and any other aspirants who are prepared to subject themselves to the democratic will of the people,” Oundo said.
His remarks come amid growing political speculation over Raila Odinga Jnr’s possible bid for the Embakasi South parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election, a contest expected to attract significant national attention.
Oundo said the entry of more candidates should strengthen democracy rather than divide residents, arguing that elections should provide voters with an opportunity to scrutinize leaders based on their vision, track record and ability to deliver.
He urged aspirants to avoid politics driven by personalities and family names, saying campaigns should instead focus on addressing the everyday challenges facing residents.
“The people of Embakasi South deserve a campaign that is issue-based and centered on delivering tangible solutions to the challenges facing residents across the constituency,” he said.
Setting out his own agenda, Oundo pledged to prioritize job creation, youth empowerment and economic transformation through support for small and medium-sized enterprises, affordable financing for entrepreneurs and sustainable employment opportunities.
His manifesto also promises increased investment in education through expanded bursary programmes, mentorship initiatives and digital literacy projects aimed at equipping young people with skills for the modern economy.
On healthcare, Oundo pledged to champion improved access to affordable medical services, enhanced support for vulnerable groups and stronger public health systems.
He further committed to improving infrastructure, sanitation, security and public service delivery while promising an open-door leadership style anchored on transparency, accountability and regular engagement with residents.
As political activity gathers pace ahead of the 2027 General Election, Oundo called on all aspirants and their supporters to conduct campaigns peacefully and uphold national unity.
“Healthy political competition strengthens democratic institutions and should be conducted with civility, respect and a shared commitment to national unity,” he said.
He added that Embakasi South deserves leaders who inspire hope, champion development and place the interests of residents above personal or political ambitions, expressing confidence that the constituency can become “economically empowered, inclusive and prosperous” through transformative leadership.
