Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has stirred debate after urging Kenyan youth to abandon street protests and focus their energy on the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a press briefing on Sunday, July 6, Jalang’o addressed the Gen Z movement ahead of the planned Saba Saba demonstrations, cautioning that the push for government accountability had been hijacked by political forces.

According to the MP, the 2027 campaign season is already underway, and politicians have infiltrated what was initially a grassroots movement with genuine concerns.

“It is very sad that this whole movement, that had a lot of promise, has been taken over politically,” he said.

Jalang’o warned young people against blindly following political agendas that could put them in harm's way, stating that the people encouraging protests would not bear the consequences if things turned tragic.

He advised the youth to take a step back on Saba Saba and use the day to reflect on their core agenda instead of flooding the streets.

The first-time MP further urged Gen Z to embrace a long-term approach to change by engaging in electoral processes such as voter registration.

“Your voice now needs to be part of the next General Election. The big battle is coming in 2027,” he said, insisting that real change would be achieved at the ballot and not in the streets.

Jalang’o also called on the youth to tone down their opposition to President William Ruto and instead support his ongoing development efforts.

He cited economic empowerment programs and grassroots engagement led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as signs of progress.

He concluded by appealing for peace on Saba Saba day and encouraged the youth to organise structured forums to define their agenda ahead of 2027.

Watch the video below:

Here are some reactions from social media users:

"Watu wakishashiba."

"Not the jalango we know 😢😢kwani hii serikali huchange aje hawa wasee."

"We are supporting him to leave the office."

"Huyu nikama hajui chenye tunapitia."

"Don't take him serious, he is a comedian."

"Well spoken, but hapo kwa support of the president is a no..Do you support a government that kills?"

"The only language they understand is streets."

In the same interview, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris alleged that external forces are funding the Gen Z-led protests.

While expressing support for peaceful demonstrations, she cautioned against incitement and urged organisers to prioritise the safety of vulnerable participants.

Passaris further suggested that external actors intend to exploit the protests by pushing crowds to storm government institutions.

Source: TUKO.co.ke