Sifuna Slightly Ahead of Jalash as DJ Rimshot Emerges as Disruptor in Nairobi Senatorial Race — Intouch Poll

The race for the Nairobi senatorial seat is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political contests in the city, according to new opinion research by Intouch Polls conducted between January and February.

The survey places incumbent Senator Edwin Sifuna slightly ahead with 39 percent support, closely followed by Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalash, who registers 34 percent. Lawyer Danstan Omari polls 12 percent, while entertainment DJ Jackson, popularly known as DJ Rimshot, records 11 percent support.

Current voter preference:
• Edwin Sifuna – 39%
• Phelix Odiwuor (Jalash) – 34%
• Danstan Omari – 12%
• DJ Rimshot Jackson – 11%

Jalash’s Momentum Growing
Political observers say Jalash’s popularity has been steadily rising across Nairobi since he declared his interest in the senatorial seat. The Lang’ata Member of Parliament is expected to enjoy a strong base in his constituency, which could provide a solid foundation for his citywide campaign.
The research also highlights the strong brand recognition Jalash commands among voters. A notable number of respondents who expressed support for him were unfamiliar with his official name, Phelix Odiwuor, instead identifying him simply as “Jalash.” Analysts say this reflects the strength of his public profile and growing appeal among ordinary Nairobi residents.

Jalash is also believed to enjoy significant goodwill within ODM circles as well as support from key political figures at the national level. With ODM remaining the most popular political party in Nairobi, analysts believe that the party’s grassroots support could play a major role if Jalash secures strong backing from the party’s base.

His strong connections within the entertainment and creative industry could also become a major campaign advantage, particularly if influential artists and entertainers rally behind his senatorial bid.

Sifuna Facing a Shifting Support Base
While Sifuna still leads in the poll, analysts say his support base appears to be shifting in ways that could pose challenges ahead of the election.

The research suggests that a growing portion of his support currently comes from voters aligned with parties outside ODM and the from broader political coalitions. Analysts warn that such support can sometimes be fluid, as these voters may ultimately rally behind candidates sponsored by their own parties once campaigns intensify.

At the same time, the poll indicates that Sifuna may be experiencing declining enthusiasm among sections of ODM grassroots supporters — a trend that political observers describe as potentially risky in a city where the party continues to command strong loyalty.
If this pattern persists, analysts say it could complicate Sifuna’s path to re-election should he seek another term as Nairobi senator.

DJ Rimshot Energizing the Youth Vote
Meanwhile, DJ Rimshot is steadily carving out a niche in the race, particularly among Nairobi’s Gen Z and youth voters.

The popular entertainment DJ previously contested for the Nairobi CBD MCA seat in the last election, giving him valuable exposure and connections with several political players in the city. His presence in the race is already generating interest among younger voters who often feel disconnected from traditional politics.

Analysts say that while Rimshot may still be building his political base, his influence among young voters could make him an important factor in shaping the overall dynamics of the senatorial race.

Race Still Open
With several months before the political season fully intensifies, the Intouch Poll suggests that the Nairobi senatorial contest remains fluid.
While Sifuna currently holds a narrow lead, Jalash’s rising popularity and DJ Rimshot’s growing youth appeal could significantly reshape the race as candidates work to consolidate support across Nairobi’s diverse political landscape.

Youthful candidate DJ Rimshot could also emerge as a significant political player in the race. Analysts note that if he is able to effectively mobilize and channel his supporters—particularly among Gen Z voters—towards either of the two leading candidates, his backing could influence the final outcome of the contest. In a race that appears increasingly competitive, such a shift in support could prove decisive.