MOMBASA, Kenya — Former Kisauni MP and 2027 Mombasa gubernatorial aspirant Ali Menza Mbogo has announced his departure from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and declared his support for the Linda Mwananchi political movement.
Mbogo said he made the decision after consultations with his supporters at both grassroots and higher political levels, as he intensifies his bid for the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a door-to-door campaign in Mjambere Ward, Kisauni, on Saturday, Mbogo urged his supporters to work closely with him as he seeks to challenge for the county’s top seat.
“After in-depth deliberations with my people, we have decided that Linda Mwananchi is the way to go. We are realigning ourselves with Linda Mwananchi faction as we accelerate our efforts to clinch the Mombasa gubernatorial seat come 2027,” he said.
Mbogo said Mombasa residents had an opportunity to change the county’s leadership through the ballot, urging voters to make what he described as informed political choices in the next election.
He criticised what he termed as repeated political mistakes since the introduction of devolution in 2013, saying the county had suffered as a result of poor choices made during previous elections.
“We have been making the same mistake since the inception of devolution in 2013. In 2022, it was a replica of the same. This habit plunged us into a worse situation and we should be more vigilant and make proper political choices in 2027,” Mbogo said.
The former legislator also stepped up his criticism of Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir, accusing his administration of failing residents and citing concerns over healthcare services, management of public resources and accountability.
Mbogo called on voters to use the 2027 election to determine whether the incumbent administration should remain in office.
The latest move marks a shift in Mbogo’s political positioning after he had earlier this year declared his support for President William Ruto and the UDA-led administration, while backing the government’s BETA agenda.
Mbogo, who has served as LAPSSET Authority chairperson since 2022, also reaffirmed his intention to contest the Mombasa gubernatorial election, setting the stage for another closely watched contest for control of the county.
The Mombasa gubernatorial race is already attracting several prominent political figures, including Nyali MP Mohammed Ali, who has recently taken up a leadership position in the Wiper Party, and UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar Hassan.
Mbogo has previously positioned himself as a strong challenger to Governor Nassir, promising to mount a serious campaign against the incumbent in the 2027 election.
