MOMBASA, County—Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and coastal ODM leaders have strongly defended the party’s growing cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration, insisting the political realignment is aimed at securing development, equity, and national inclusion.
Speaking during the issuance of KSh 115 million in bursaries at Sheikh Zayed School in Mombasa, the leaders dismissed criticism of the engagement, warning against tribal politics as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.
“Mombasa has always been built on neighbourliness and love. We cannot allow leaders to divide people along tribal lines,” Governor Abdulswamad said.
He urged Coastal residents to remain loyal to ODM and respect party leader Raila Odinga, while insisting that the region is now more united and strategically positioned to negotiate for its interests. Adding that the Coast would use its numerical strength to demand fairness in national governance.
The leaders defended ODM’s cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration, arguing that the move is meant to ensure equitable access to government services across political divides.
Abdulswamad said the engagement had already helped address key grievances, including improved access to national identity cards and restoration of port-related opportunities in Mombasa.
They further signaled a strategic shift in ODM’s approach ahead of 2027, saying the party would prioritise participation in government rather than street protests.
Joho for DP
In a notable political endorsement, some Coastal ODM leaders backed Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho for the Deputy President position in 2027, citing the region’s growing political influence.
The leaders also launched sharp criticism at former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of continued political interference while alleging that his administration had sidelined the Coast in development and job opportunities.
They further claimed past regimes diverted port-related economic opportunities away from Mombasa, worsening the historical marginalisation of the region.
