Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has endorsed Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, as a suitable candidate for Deputy President in Kenya’s 2027 general election, urging national unity across religions and tribes while warning against forces of division.
Speaking during the Eid Baraza held at Treasury Square in Mombasa, Nassir emphasised that unity remains the cornerstone of progress amid Kenya’s diverse society.
The event brought together community members, religious leaders, and prominent Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) figures, including Chief Guest CS Joho, combining post-Eid celebrations with political messaging on national leadership and regional representation.
“Our unity is our strength; despite our differences, our unity is what will take us forward. All religions and all tribes must be brought together ahead,” Nassir said, emphasising the need for inclusivity.
The Governor framed the endorsement as part of ODM’s push for equitable partnership in any future coalition government arrangements.
“As we work to unite our people, beware of the prophets of doom and division,” he warned.
Nassir added a poignant metaphor for leaders trying to look better by making others look worse. “You cannot make your light shine brighter by dimming someone else’s.”
The sentiments align with the broader Coast region stance, where ODM leaders have increasingly rallied behind Joho as their preferred choice for Deputy President.
Recent declarations describe the demand as an “irreducible ”minimum for the party, insisting that the position should come from ODM, and ideally, the Coast to ensure balanced representation in national leadership following the broad-based government arrangement between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The Eid Baraza served as a platform for reinforcing these calls, with multiple speakers echoing themes of regional empowerment, development, and political cohesion. Joho’s presence as the chief guest underscored the growing momentum behind his potential candidacy, as Coast leaders position the region as a key player in shaping Kenya’s 2027 electoral landscape.
The endorsements highlight ongoing negotiations within the broad-based government, where ODM seeks guarantees of co-ownership rather than subordinate roles in future administrations.
Nassir has previously described the party’s entry into the arrangement as a “conscious, patriotic choice” to stabilise the nation, now demanding that it translate into full partnership, including a joint presidential ticket.
By Ramadhan Nassib
