By Robert Mutasi 
Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago has pledged to support Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidates seeking the Langas and Huruma Member of County Assembly seats in the 2027 General Election.
Mandago made the commitment during a liturgical service and candle-lighting ceremony in Eldoret to mark the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Addressing hundreds of residents, the senator linked his position to the working relationship between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Mandago said the two parties should reciprocate the political support they have extended to each other over the years.
He recalled ODM’s backing for his political ambitions in the past and said the time had come for him to return the favour.
“Even here in Langas, if we organise ourselves, are you saying we cannot move with the MCA seat to ODM? Even in Huruma, why don’t we put it there?” Mandago said.
The senator, however, said ODM must first conduct its nominations and settle on a single candidate before he and his allies offer their support.
“Because we are broad-based, you people in ODM will conduct your nominations. Once you produce a candidate, we will come and support them here in Langas and Huruma,” he said.
Both wards have attracted several aspirants as political parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
In Langas, several ODM hopefuls are seeking the party ticket, including Florence Akinyi, popularly known as Mama Daughter.
The current Langas MCA, Francis Muya, won the seat on a Jubilee Party ticket and has served as the ward representative since 2013. He also serves as the Uasin Gishu County Assembly minority leader.
Huruma MCA Kimani Wanjohi is also a Jubilee Party representative.
Mandago’s declaration could reshape the political contest in the two cosmopolitan wards, where several parties are expected to field candidates.
Meanwhile, the senator said political actors in Uasin Gishu had agreed to conduct peaceful campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mandago has increasingly positioned himself outside Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim’s political camp after the two leaders fell out.
The governor recently accused his predecessor of holding meetings with some county directors at night, an allegation that has further exposed divisions within Uasin Gishu politics.
Mandago is also linked to the gubernatorial ambitions of Tourism Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, although he has not publicly declared his preferred candidate for the governor’s seat.
“We will come and plan the issues here, but we have agreed that we will conduct peaceful campaigns,” Mandago said.
Kesses MP Julius Ruto accompanied Mandago during the Eldoret event.
Mandago’s latest remarks come as political parties and aspirants intensify preparations for the 2027 election, with the Langas and Huruma MCA contests emerging as key battles in Uasin Gishu County.