Stanley Mutisya, a man who bears a striking resemblance to Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwour, popularly known as Jalang’o, has made a heartfelt plea to the politician for assistance. Identifying himself as Jalas Junior on social media, Mutisya has expressed his hopes for support from the MP, despite their different ethnic backgrounds, highlighting the complexities of identity and aspirations in Kenya’s social landscape.
Mutisya’s public appeal comes on the heels of advice from Jalang’o, who suggested that the young man focus on finding meaningful work. The MP’s comments were made during an appearance on the Iko Nini podcast, where he emphasized that resembling a public figure is not a career path. He encouraged Mutisya to pursue a livelihood that would be meaningful regardless of any perceived similarities between them.
“Let’s say he didn’t resemble me. He should do what he would be doing if he didn’t resemble me,” Jalang’o said. “If you see something you would be doing and it helps you, do it even if you don’t resemble me. It’s not necessary for me to be the one you follow.”
In response, Mutisya, who lives in the Lang’ata constituency, reached out through online media to share his side of the story. He acknowledged Jalang’o’s advice but reiterated his request for support. Mutisya argued that his plea was not merely about seeking a handout but about finding guidance and opportunity from someone he feels a connection to, whether through appearance or shared heritage.
“To be honest, I look like you. I think you’re not willing to help me because I’m not a Luo, I’m a Kamba,” Mutisya stated. “Don’t let that stop you from helping me. I’m currently working hard and people close to me know my efforts. I have also studied.”
Mutisya’s comments reflect a deeper issue often seen in the Kenyan context, where ethnic affiliations and social connections can play a significant role in one’s access to opportunities. Despite their ethnic differences, Mutisya expressed hope that Jalang’o would look beyond these barriers and consider the possibility that they might share a blood relationship.
“I’m from Lang’ata. Forget the idea that you can’t help a Kamba just because you’re a Luo. You never know, I could be your relative and you don’t know it. I could be your real sibling. Also, I’m hardworking and I’m working. Sir, please intervene and help me out,” he pleaded.
Mutisya’s appeal highlights the aspirations of many young Kenyans who see figures like Jalang’o as symbols of success and hope. Jalang’o’s journey from a popular radio host to a first-term MP serves as an inspiration to many, especially those who aspire to rise above their circumstances. However, the MP made it clear in his podcast appearance that success does not come merely from emulation but from individual effort and resilience.
“Resembling me is not a job,” Jalang’o noted. “You know people asked him, ‘What would you like to do?’ He said he could do the things Jalas used to do. Start, you don’t have to be like me to do it. Do something you would be doing if you didn’t resemble me, because even I am not a job.”
Jalang’o’s response underlines a broader message: that success is personal and is not guaranteed by mere association or resemblance to others. His advice to Mutisya is a call to action for all young people to carve out their own paths and pursue their dreams with dedication, irrespective of whom they may look like or the communities they come from.
As Mutisya continues his journey, his story serves as a reminder of the challenges many face in navigating their identities and aspirations. It remains to be seen whether Jalang’o will respond to Mutisya’s latest appeal, but the conversation they have sparked highlights the enduring importance of mentorship, opportunity, and the pursuit of meaningful work in shaping the future of Kenya’s youth.
