By C, KNA
Residents of Tsimba-Golini ward in Kwale County have expressed support for Governor Fatuma Achani ahead of the 2027 General Election, citing her leadership style as inclusive, transparent and anchored on public participation.
Speaking during a public engagement participation forum held at Tsimba Social Hall, the residents said the current administration has enhanced accountability and strengthened grassroots involvement in development planning.
Mackenzie Mohamed Renny, a member of the County Budget and Economic Forum (CBEF), said the political season provides an opportunity for citizens to exercise their constitutional rights.
“We are in a political season, and every Kenyan has political rights under Article 38 of the Constitution and freedom of expression under Article 33. That is why I am openly expressing my political views,” said Renny.
He acknowledged that other aspirants have declared interest in the gubernatorial seat, noting that it is their constitutional right to do so.
“Others have come forward to vie for the seat. It is their right and we do not deny them. But we believe the one currently in office and who will still be there after the 2027 general election is Fatuma Achani,” he stated.
Renny urged young people to exercise responsibility while using social media platforms, cautioning against the spread of unverified information.
“Many young people are sharing information they have not verified. We must share accurate information so that others can analyze it critically,” he added.
He further cited transparency in governance as a key reason for supporting the governor, saying that development projects are implemented following consultations from the sub-county to the village level.
“There is no project implemented without public involvement. Government information is accessible even at the grassroots. That is accountability,” he said.
Fatuma Chaunga, a political mobilizer in the county, described Achani’s leadership as a significant milestone for women in Kwale politics.
She noted that since independence, the county had only one female leader, Marere wa Mwachai, who served a single term.
“It was not until devolution that we saw another woman rise to top leadership,” she said.
Under the devolved system of government established by the 2010 Constitution, Achani previously served as Deputy Governor before being elected Governor in 2022, succeeding Salim Mvurya.
Chaunga said the governor overcame cultural and religious stereotypes as a Muslim woman from the Digo community.
“There were perceptions that Islam does not allow women to lead. But leadership and religion are separate matters,” she said.
She added that the county administration has promoted women’s economic empowerment through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), which have enabled women to access business opportunities, including county tenders.
Chaunga also cited the completion of Kwale Stadium among key development milestones achieved under the current administration.
She called on residents to uphold peaceful political engagement and continue supporting the governor’s development agenda.
The sentiments were expressed on the sidelines of the county’s public participation forum on budget planning at Tsimba Social Hall.
