Coastal Leaders Unite at Joho’s ‘Victory Lunch
Hours after his official appointment as Minister of Mining and Maritime Economy, former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho hosted a lunch for coastal leaders, including all MPs from the Coast, senators, and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir.
During the luncheon, which was attended by all coastal leaders except Nyali MP Mohammed Ali, the group discussed setting aside their differences and enhancing unity among them. Joho’s appointment has been seen as a boost to regional unity, which had been lacking since he left his role as governor.
The meeting included representatives from ODM, UDA, Wiper Party, and Pamoja Africa Alliance (PAA).
“We met as leaders and discussed how to come together and maintain unity. We have discussed many issues, but we cannot disclose them all just yet. We will make them public soon,” said one of the MPs who attended the lunch.
The last such meeting took place nine months ago, when Joho had called for a similar gathering to discuss coastal issues.
Joho, who is known as the ‘Sultan’ of the Coast, has been a key figure in regional politics due to his influence in directing leaders towards a particular political direction.
Following the meeting, leaders took the opportunity to congratulate Joho on his new role in the government.
“We are pleased to see Joho appointed as Minister of Mining, and we assure him of our support to help him fulfill his duties. Given his expertise, we have no doubt he will excel in this role,” said Mishi Mboko, MP for Likoni.
As leaders met in Nairobi, calm prevailed across the six coastal counties, with young people refraining from protests. They viewed Joho’s and Salim Mvurya’s appointments as signs of government recognition.
“We are happy with the two ministerial positions given to our leaders and we hope President Ruto will remember us in the future,” said Mombasa resident Salima Hussein.
The same calm was observed in Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Taita-Taveta, and Kwale counties, even as protests against the current government continued in Nairobi.
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