A new political alliance between Mining Minister Hassan Joho and EALA MP Suleiman Shahbal signals a shift in Mombasa politics. Joho has publicly endorsed Shahbal in the 2027 gubernatorial race, with the two appearing together at various events. This could reshape alliances in the region.
A new political alliance between Mining Minister Hassan Joho and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Suleiman Shahbal signals a potential shift in the 2027 Mombasa gubernatorial race.
For several weeks, Joho has been seen alongside Shahbal at various events, including those in North Eastern region, Lamu, Tana River, and areas beyond Mombasa. On Saturday, February 28, Joho publicly announced his endorsement of the businessman, who is seeking the governorship for the third time.
“This time, I want to tell you that if Mr. Shahbal has decided, I have also decided. He is a good speaker, has resources, is clever, and has political experience,” Joho said.
That Saturday night, the two attended a fundraising event for Mombasa United Football Club, founded by Shahbal in 2021 during the General Election campaigns.
Previously, Joho and his brother Abu Joho had supported Governor Abdulswamad Nassir. In 2022, Shahbal was persuaded by ODM leaders led by the late Raila Odinga to withdraw from the gubernatorial race and back Nassir. The proposal was supported by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
In a recent interview, Shahbal revealed his intention to run again. He met with Luo community elders in Mombasa, publicly announcing his ambition and seeking forgiveness for stepping down in 2022 to support Nassir. He claimed he was informed his popularity stood at 45 percent, behind his opponent, despite his own research showing a 22 percent lead.
Shahbal said Odinga told him the nation was bigger than his personal ambition, and he faced immense pressure. “Let us leave the past and look to the future,” he said.
The race to succeed Governor Nassir, serving his first term, is heating up, though early campaigns have been paused due to Ramadan. Nassir relies on his contributions in education, health, water, and environmental sanitation. Critics say key sectors have deteriorated under his leadership, with complaints about increased county fees.
In UDA, former Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo is expected to vie for the ticket against Secretary General Hassan Omar. The opposition, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has named Nyali MP Mohamed Ali as their candidate.
Mombasa's politics features only one UDA MP, Mohamed Ali, while the other five MPs, Senator, Women Representative, and most MCAs are ODM members.